Last Call: The Sobering Truth About F.A.S./F.A.E.

While no one can guarantee a healthy baby, a mother can absolutely guarantee that she will give birth to a baby free of the effects of F.A.S. if she abstains from alcohol during pregnancy. Unfortunately, according to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Fetal Alcohol Syndrome and Fetal Alcohol Effects have increased by 600% in recent years. Contrary to popular belief, it's not simply a mother's drinking problem that is to blame, as mothers receive conflicting advice from the medical community, with many doctors suggesting that a drink now and then won't hurt (in fact, last year when my friend Siobhan was pregnant, her doctor said a pint of Guinness a day would actually be good for the baby!). In reality, however, no level of alcohol consumption has been guaranteed safe. Rather then simply lecturing viewers on the evils of drink or showering them with statistics, Last Call examines the reasons why women drink during pregnancy and the societal effects of this problem, and interviews the mother of an 11-year-old son who must live with the consequences of her actions. Much better than Wine, Women & Wellness (VL-5/92), this informative video with its important message for all women of child-bearing age is recommended. Aud. H, C, P. (J. Asala)