|
|
| www.smw.ch |
| Lemola S, Grob A. |
Swiss Med Wkly 2007;137:66–69
|
| Short communication Peer reviewed article |
 |
| Summary Background: Although drinking and smoking during pregnancy can have hazardous effects to exposed children, a certain number of pregnant women continues to consume alcohol and nicotine. It was investigated whether physicians and midwifes in Switzerland ask pregnant women about their drinking and smoking habits. Method: A self-report questionnaire was used to assess whether pregnant women were screened for alcohol and nicotine consumption by physicians or midwifes. Data of 368 women were included in the analyses. Results: 30.0% reported drinking alcohol at least once a month after pregnancy recognition, 2.2% reported binge drinking and 10.1% were smokers. Only in 36.1% of the sample drinking during pregnancy was addressed. The subgroup, which drank alcohol, was not more likely to be asked about drinking habits than non-drinkers. In contrast, smoking was addressed in 66.3% of the total sample and it was addressed in nearly 90% of the smokers’ subgroup. Conclusion: A change in the screening practice in prenatal care with regard to alcohol drinking during pregnancy is recommended. Brief interventions can reduce drinking during pregnancy. |
Departement Personality and Developmental Psychology, University of Basel, Switzerland |
|
Copyright © 2007 EMH Swiss Medical Publishers Ltd. |
Top