DrinkWise has partnered with seven-time Olympic medallist Libby Trickett and medical experts to highlight the importance of avoiding alcohol when planning a pregnancy, during pregnancy and while breastfeeding.
The campaign will run as part of International Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) Awareness Day on 9 September.
FASD prevention is the key message from Trickett, who recently welcomed her fifth child, and said she wanted to use her experience to support other women in making healthy choices from the very start of pregnancy.
“Throughout my swimming career, I learned the importance of preparation to give yourself the best chance to succeed – and motherhood is no different,” Trickett said.
“I’ve always known the risks of drinking during pregnancy, but becoming a new mum again has reminded me just how important those early choices are for our little ones’ futures.”
Obstetrician and campaign supporter, Dr Philippa Costley, said FASD can have lifelong consequences for children.
“Prenatal exposure to alcohol can reduce fetal brain size and damage regions of the baby’s brain that are critical for learning, memory, behaviour, language and decision-making,” Dr Costley said.
“Abstaining from alcohol during your pregnancy journey gives babies the best possible start in life.
“Partners, family, and friends have an important role in supporting these choices, helping to create an environment where healthy decisions are encouraged and celebrated.”
Recent DrinkWise research found 90 per cent of women aged 18 to 44 believe no amount of alcohol is safe during any stage of pregnancy, up from 77 per cent in 2018, but only 57 per cent of Australians over 18 were aware that FASD is entirely preventable.
DrinkWise CEO, Simon Strahan, said more work is needed to educate people about risks.
“We must turn knowledge into action by reinforcing that FASD is 100 per cent preventable,” Strahan said.
“Libby will play an important role in this year’s campaign, sharing her personal decision to abstain from alcohol and encouraging other women to feel confident and supported in making the same choice.”