This report gives an overview of the use of alcohol, tobacco and other substances among pregnant women in the Nordic countries and describes the consequences of prenatal exposure for the foetus.

The focus is on the pregnancy period and primarily on the use of alcohol and the consequences for the foetus of prenatal exposure.

The report describes the situation in all Nordic countries, reviewing the national guidelines of alcohol use during pregnancy and the (screening) instruments used at the antenatal care to identify alcohol use among pregnant women. Furthermore, the aim is to describe the services available for pregnant women with alcohol dependence.

The negative consequences of prenatal exposure to alcohol and/or other substances can be lifelong, and the exposed child may require support from a range of services, including health care, social care, and the education system. The increased service demands and productivity losses lead to staggering societal costs. Children with prenatal exposure to alcohol and/or other substances may also suffer from other caregiving adversities, such as neglect, parental substance misuse, and mental health issues.
Nordens Välfärdscenter 2020