Identification of Alcohol Risk Drinking Behaviour in Pregnancy Using a Web-Based Questionnaire: Large-Scale Implementation in Antenatal Care

AIMS: This study aimed to examine the feasibility of a web-based questionnaire when collecting information on alcohol consumption in pregnancy to identify women with risk drinking behaviour, and to describe factors associated with risk drinking behaviour, and the use of specialized care for prenatal risk drinking.

METHODS: In 2413 women referred to antenatal care at Odense University Hospital, Denmark, April-October 2018, self-reported alcohol intake was retrieved from a web-based questionnaire. Replies were screened for risk drinking behaviour: current intake of ≥7 drinks/week, ≥3 binge drinking episodes (intake of ≥5 drinks on a single occasion) in pregnancy, binge drinking after recognition of pregnancy and/or a TWEAK-score ≥ 2 points. Women with risk drinking behaviour were called to clarify the need for specialized care. A summary of the interview was obtained from the medical records.

RESULTS: Overall, 2168 (90%) completed the questionnaire. Of 2097 women providing information on alcohol intake, 77 (4%) had risk drinking behaviour. Risk drinking was associated with higher alcohol intake prior to pregnancy, spontaneous conception, younger age, nulliparity and higher level of physical activity in pregnancy. Amongst 47 women with risk drinking behaviour reached by phone, five (11%, 95% CI 4-23%) accepted examinations of the child by paediatrician and child psychologist, and <3 (not further specified due to small numbers) were referred to specialized antenatal care.

CONCLUSIONS: A web-based questionnaire was feasible when collecting information on alcohol consumption in pregnancy to identify risk drinking behaviour. Women with risk drinking behaviour had a low acceptance of referral to specialized care.