Former Biggest Loser host Fiona Falkiner and her media personality fiancée Hayley Willis are urging women to avoid alcohol if they’re planning a pregnancy, during pregnancy and while breastfeeding.
The parents, who have two boys under two, are raising awareness of Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD), leading up to FASD Awareness Day.
Prenatal exposure to alcohol can reduce the size and weight of the fetal brain. It can also directly damage regions of a baby’s brain that are critical for learning, memory, behaviour, language and decision-making.
New DrinkWise research has revealed that 82% of Australian women aged 18-44 believe pregnant women should abstain from alcohol during pregnancy, which is significantly more than previous years.
Fiona and Hayley are supporting the DrinkWise message to educate new-and-expecting mums and their support networks that FASD is a 100% preventable condition.
“Supporting each other and educating women about important issues like FASD is paramount. We’re passionate about the health and safety of all children and we’re glad we can help spread this important message,” said Falkiner.
Hayley underwent IVF to fall pregnant, announcing the safe arrival of Spencer in August, who arrived three weeks ahead of his due date. They already have a one-year-old son, Hunter, who was carried by Fiona.
“Motherhood has been fantastic! I’m enjoying the ride. Two boys under two! It’s chaotic but it’s the best kind of chaos and I love it. Whilst my eyes may look like they’re falling out of my head, I wouldn’t change it for a thing,” Hayley said.
Fiona abstained from alcohol during her conception and pregnancy journey with Hunter and Hayley did likewise to ensure the safety of their second baby boy Spencer. Both believe giving up alcohol was an easy decision to make for the health of their children.
“For us, abstaining from alcohol when trying to fall pregnant, when pregnant and breastfeeding was a really simple choice to make. We wanted to give our bubby’s the best start to life,” Fiona said.
“We did the research and consulted medical professionals, and it was clear – we shouldn’t be drinking,” added Hayley.
DrinkWise research shows 49% of partners said they would likely give up alcohol to support their partner if they were planning a pregnancy, pregnant or breastfeeding.
“I thought it was beneficial for me to support Hayley by abstaining from alcohol during her pregnancy and now during her breastfeeding. I just want to give her all the support she needs, and it’s been the best for our children,” Fiona said.
Fiona’s abstinence from alcohol has given Hayley the extra support she needs.
“It’s incredibly encouraging to see more partners are supporting women from abstaining from alcohol during their pregnancy journey because you need that support around you. It is a tough journey, but I’m so proud to say that I gave my kids the best start to life by abstaining from alcohol when pregnant.”
Obstetrician Dr Vicki Carson, who has seen the devastating effects of alcohol on new-born babies first-hand, believes all Australians need to know the facts.
“FASD is a 100% preventable condition that can cause irreparable damage. This isn’t just an issue that women should know about, it is just as important that their partners and families know about it too,” said Dr Carson.
“As an obstetrician my advice is that there is no safe amount of alcohol to consume during pregnancy so it’s best to avoid alcohol completely when you’re planning a pregnancy, while you’re pregnant and while you’re breastfeeding.”
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mom93821 replied
- 09 Sep 2022 , 6:09 am
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Ellen replied
- 09 Sep 2022 , 7:56 am
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