How should the nurse respond to a client asking about alcohol consumption during the second trimester?

Abstinence is strongly recommended throughout pregnancy to ensure the health and safety of both the mother and the developing fetus. Alcohol consumption during any trimester, including the second, poses potential risks and can lead to fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASDs), which can result in lifelong physical, behavioral, and learning problems for the child.

Healthcare professionals advocate for complete abstinence because there is no established safe level of alcohol consumption during pregnancy. Avoiding alcohol entirely eliminates the risk of exposure to the fetus, thereby promoting optimal outcomes. The emphasis on abstinence reflects a precautionary approach, prioritizing the well-being of the unborn child over uncertain benefits or perceptions regarding moderate alcohol use.