You’ve probably already heard that the United States’ Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) released an infographic on Tuesday that has left many women of “child-rearing age” dumbfounded. According to their research, women “at risk of pregnancy”, as in those who aren’t using contraception, should abstain from alcoholic beverages.
In other words, the new recommendation is that 18-44 year old women should say no to that Saturday night red wine because they merely have the ability to fall pregnant.
One woman finds this idea so preposterous she has created her infographic, one that pairs each type of contraception with its own designated beverage.
Genius.
Women have been advised in every parenting book under the sun that abstaining from alcohol whilst pregnant is a health-conscious and appropriate measure given the known effects booze can have on an unborn child.
Even women who are trying to conceive are encouraged to ease up on their intake of alcohol, just in case they fall pregnant. But this shouldn't be cause for worry as, according to Drinkwise Australia, consuming a small number of beverages before pregnancy is considered is low-risk in terms of the baby's overall health.
It's worth noting, of course, that Drinkwise is largely funded by alcohol companies. That said, they have sought expert opinion from health professionals. But, you should make your own mind up about what they have to say.
What do you think about the CDC's new guidelines?