Sharman Stone MP

 

This is the ninth day of the ninth month and it’s time to recognise Foetal Alcohol Syndrome Day. This date will symbolise the time of a pregnancy and the dangers of mothers to be, consuming alcohol at a time of pregnancy and during breastfeeding.

 

The National Health and Medical Research Council’s recommendation is that no alcohol is to be consumed during pregnancy and breastfeeding. This is of critical importance to avoid what is now the biggest cause of newborns with brain damage that is the mother’s consumption of alcohol during critical times in critical quantities during their pregnancy.

 

”Australians have a real culture of drinking,” Federal Member for Murray, Sharman Stone said. 

 

“Of course drinking in moderation is not a problem, but drinking is not something pregnant women should contemplate.   Just nine months on the wagon can guarantee that there is no danger to the newborn.   Foetal Alcohol Syndrome not only leaves the baby with irreversible and permanent brain damage, but it can also affect the child and adult’s capacity to even be able hold down a job, live independently and enjoy the best things about life. 

 

“It is very worrying that women and girls in Australia are still not aware of the dangers of drinking while pregnant. It is very good news however that recently some alcohol and beer companies volunteered to label their bottles and cans with warnings about pregnancy and alcohol consumption.

 

“A bi-partisan supported motion highlighting the problem of Foetal Alcohol Syndrome in Australia has now passed through the Senate and should soon be passed through the House of Representatives,” Sharman Stone said

 

“This motion will call on the government to better communicate the dangers of alcohol consumption mixed with pregnancy.

 

“We need to educate health service professionals, the police, teachers and all of those who may come into contact with people suffering from Foetal Alcohol Syndrome. This will also give better support for those who are victims of their mother’s drinking, therefore facing a life of special challenges and difficulties,” Sharman Stone said.