Motivational interventions in prenatal clinics

Although the risks associated with pregnancy are well-documented, prevention efforts, for the most part, have not reached women who drink at levels that present the greatest risk. Recent clinical studies and demonstration projects show that interventions by obstetric caregivers can help reduce drinking even among women who consume alcohol at the heaviest levels. Brief interventions and motivational interviewing are two approaches that can be adapted for busy medical offices to provide interventions before, during, and after pregnancies. By combining these interventions with a stepped-care approach, practitioners will be able to intervene to prevent drinking during pregnancy while minimizing costs to the patient and demands for limited clinic resources.