Consumed with worry over drinking in early pregnancy

[WantedChild]

Hi everyone. FTM here. I am currently 23 weeks pregnant and am suddenly consumed with the thoughts of how much I drank before getting that BFP. It was Christmastime and I was out A LOT. Definitely had well over the recommended units - probably every day!
I was 6 weeks along when I found out and am so worried I have already caused irreparable damage.
I have followed similar threads on here before but they are all quite old, so I am hoping for some up to date reassurance (or maybe the scared mums have some good news to report).

I can't bear the thought of having a disabled or impaired child because of my partying. I'm married and 35 and should know better.

what is your question here? Are you asking for success stories of those who have drunk wine and smoked throughout their pregnancies?

There are threads on here but obviously you know you shouldn't be smoking during pregnancy, it's terrible for the baby and for you too.

my sisters doctor advised my sister to keep smoking during her pregnancy & other family members , it’s drinking that’s really bad which i shouldn’t have but i let stress take over i was just sharing how i felt

why did a doctor advise that?

I think you need to talk to your midwife if you're struggling and engaging in risky behaviour towards yourself and your baby.

i’m not really here to be judged just venting

I haven't judged you - I have just suggested talking to your midwife as smoking and drinking large amounts in pregnancy isn't good for you and you said you are worrying about it.

No one on here is going to be able to tell you it's fine or will be fine

@SweetStrawberrie where I'm from, obviously quitting smoking is advised, but if it will cause too kuch stress on the mother to quit, doctors will advise to reduce to up to 5 cigs a day, as the stress can be more harmful to the baby than the actual smoking.

As for the drinking, it really depends how much you're drinking... If its one glass of wine here and there, it's probably not gonna cause issues. But if it's more like a bottle here and there (or every day) then the risk of FAS is significant

@Mommy223 have you talked to the doctor about your drinking?

You cannot give your infant FASD by drinking before 6 weeks, as the placenta hasn't formed. I got very drunk at 4 weeks pregnant ( so the weekend my period was due) I am pretty sure I drank the following weekend too. That pregnancy has just finished 8th in his year of 100 at Oxford University after his first year. I hope that reassures you.

@babyyodaxmas oh, I have zero concerns about drinking in early pregnancy! I know sooooo mnay women who did it, and because they had irregular periods didnt even realise they were pregnant until closer to 8 weeks, and their kids are absolutely fine!!

I was replying to @Mommy223 who said she has been drinking regularly, and shes 29 weeks! That could be a concern!

@Mommy223 both drinking and smoking can be detrimental to your baby. But it's not easy to stop alone. Please speak to your GP who can refer you to the right services. Not sure where your sister lives but I have a hard time believing any UK doctor would advise a pregnant woman to keep smoking.