Alcohol and dietary patterns among pregnant women in Lunyiri sub county, Pader District

Abstract

Alcohol is the most common teratogen. Consumption during pregnancy is associated with a range of adverse outcomes for the developing infant and the mother. This study was conducted in Pader district particularly in Parwech Lukee village in Lunyiri Sub County to determine the association of alcohol consumption during pregnancy with dietary patterns and risks of negative of pregnancy outcome. This study was a cross- sectional survey of 50 women of reproductive age which was designed to obtain information on risks of still birth, low birth weight, miscarriage and to assess pregnancy-related food practices such as food cravings and consumption. The results of the study indicate that the risks of negative pregnancy outcome were prevalent with 12% at risk of miscarriage while 10% at risk of stillbirth and low birth weight. Majority of the women (28%) craved for mangoes meanwhile 20% had stable food intake behaviour. The study also showed that intake of fatty foods was at 10% among regular alcohol drinkers mean while intake of fruits and vegetables were high 22% and 64% among non-drinkers. It is recommended that government should sale up awareness creation on the effects of alcohol consumption among pregnant women in order to respond and prevent its associated effects on maternal health and infant development.