The overarching message from this study is that two distinct populations of women exist: those who stop drinking as soon as they know they are pregnant and those who continue to drink, either because they are unaware of, or despite, the recommendation of abstinence. Some maternal characteristics may provide warning signs to health professionals who may be able to target a prevention message to women most likely to drink at binge levels. The first group are likely to have an unplanned pregnancy, not feel the effects of alcohol quickly and, if drinking at binge levels, have no previous children. Pregnancy planning and parity did not predict continued drinking beyond the first trimester. Rather, women in this category tended to have a higher education and income, smoke cigarettes and be in their early to mid-thirties.
