Question about alcohol

iVillage Member
Registered: 04-08-2003
Question about alcohol
4
Thu, 09-04-2003 - 2:59pm
I'm hoping someone will know the answer to this. I stopped taking the pill last month, as my DH and I wanted to start trying to get pregnant in 3 months, we're both 32. My period was late so I took a test this morning thinking surely not on the first month after 10 years on the pill, but I'll just check?!? Well, it's positive! I estimate conception 3 weeks ago. While I am absolutely thrilled, I am also worried because I have drank alcohol on several occasions this month. I am very afraid I've hurt the baby. Does anyone know when the blood supply between mom and baby forms? Some info I found says not till 5 weeks, in which case we would be ok, other sources aren't as clear. Help! Of course, I won't touch a drop going forward!
iVillage Member
Registered: 07-29-2003
Thu, 09-04-2003 - 3:10pm
I think that it is 5 weeks for just that reason. Some women don't know they are pregnant until much later in their cycle and this way your body kind of protects the baby.

I think you will be fine.

Congrats!!

iVillage Member
Registered: 08-18-2003
Thu, 09-04-2003 - 3:28pm
I don't understand where the 5 weeks comes from? You would implant about a week from your O date. That's when the embryo would get it's first drops of blood. By experience, I drank on 2 weekends before I learned I was prego. I mean heavily (2 parties). After I learned I was prego I drank about half a beer every about 2 weeks. I had a picture perfect pregnancy, and a beautiful, healthy baby. He's almost 3 and has no problems (and I think he's even a little advanced, but I'm his mom and a little biased) As long as you don't drink now, you (and the baby) should be fine.

BTW, congratulations!

Kate

iVillage Member
Registered: 03-27-2003
Thu, 09-04-2003 - 3:34pm
I'm not sure about the blood...but thought I'd let you know that...my first pg was a surprise and I drank several times before I knew I was pg. I never got drunk, a margarita or a shot of whiskey (and some stronger, homemade stuff) here and there. My first child is 4 years old now and EXTREMELY intelligent, which is a relief, because like you, I was scared that I did some damage! I of course, didn't have another drink of alcohol after I found out I was pg, and haven't since then.

Anyway, HTH!

iVillage Member
Registered: 04-08-2003
Thu, 09-04-2003 - 4:32pm
Thanks for the encouraging stories about your brilliant, wonderful kids! It helps to have your positive experiences to focus on when fear strikes. Keep em coming!

As for the five weeks, that's when some sources say the umbilical cord forms, but perhaps as has been said, there is blood exchange before then? It's confusing!

Regardless, I suppose all I can really do now is focus on taking excellent care of myself, and the baby, going forward.

Still haven't even told my husband yet! I don't want to do it over the phone when he is at work...

Also some messages here have me concerned we should maybe keep this to ourselves for a few more weeks in case things don't work out this time. Anyone have an idea when is a safe time to "announce" a pregnancy to friends and family?