ADVISORY COMMISSION ON WOMEN

Does alcohol affect women differently than men?

Yes. Women and men seem to process alcohol differently. As a result, some of the negative effects of alcohol seem to affect women more quickly than men. Compared with men, women become intoxicated (drunk) more quickly and after drinking less alcohol than men. Women also develop alcoholic liver disease, particularly alcoholic cirrhosis and hepatitis, more rapidly and after using less alcohol than men. Alcoholic women are more likely to die from cirrhosis than are alcoholic men. The definition of moderate drinking for women is one glass of wine, spirits, or beer a day.

Pregnant women should not drink any alcohol. Drinking excessively also has negative effects on women's reproductive health. Chronic heavy drinking can lead to menstrual problems such as excessive pain, heavy menstrual flow, premenstrual discomfort, and irregular or absent cycles. It can also cause infertility problems and lead to early menopause.

How does drinking during pregnancy affect your baby?

Drinking any alcohol during pregnancy can be very dangerous for your baby. It can lead to long-term birth defects that affect how the baby will look and develop. The most severe effects of heavy drinking during pregnancy are called fetal alcohol syndrome (FAS). FAS can lead to low birthweight; deformities of the face, head, or brain; problems with vision or hearing; developmental delays; behavioral problems; learning disabilities; and mental retardation. The effect of fetal alcohol syndrome last throughout childhood and adulthood.

Even women who consider themselves moderate drinkers may pass on less severe forms of these serious health problems to their infants.

These health problems are known as Fetal Alcohol Effects (FAE). Both FAS and FAE are 100 percent preventable if you do not drink any alcohol during pregnancy.

The definition of moderate drinking for women is one glass of wine, spirits, or beer a day. Pregnant women should not drink any alcohol.

Alcohol and Substance Abuse Resources

Atlantic County Division of Public Health's Substance Abuse Services
645-5945

Atlantic County Division of Public Health's Women's Clinic
645-5933

Alcoholics Anonymous (AA).
Check your local phone book for listings in your area.
Internet: www.alcoholics-anonymous.org

National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence
Phone: 800-622-2255
Internet: www.ncadd.org

National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism
Phone: 301-443-3860
Internet: www.niaaa.nih.gov

National Clearinghouse for Alcohol and Drug Information
Phone: 800-729-6686
Internet: www.health.org

National Organization on Fetal Alcohol Syndrome
Phone: 800-666-6327
Internet: www.nofas.org

Click here to see a list of related resources.