The Society of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists of Canada are recommending that physicians should ask women about their alcohol use. The recommendations are based on a two-year review of international scientific evidence by an expert committee convened by the SOGC
“There are a lot of women asking is it safe to have a few drinks in pregnancy or not, and there are many conflicting reports around the world to say yes or no,” said SOGC president Dr. Ahmed Ezzat. “So there are many, many questions and there haven’t been clear guidelines for healthcare workers to advise these women or to counsel them about it.”
The new guidelines encourage health providers to talk to women about their alcohol use and to provide counseling or referrals to treatment if necessary.