Evaluation of a self-help program to reduce alcohol consumption among pregnant women

This study tested a cognitive-behavioral intervention for reducing alcohol consumption among economically disadvantaged pregnant women. The intervention included a 10-minute educational session and a nine-step self-help manual. Women attending public health maternity clinics completed a screening questionnaire, a pretest questionnaire, were randomly assigned to receive the self-help intervention or usual clinic care, and completed a posttest questionnaire. A higher alcohol quit rate was observed among the intervention participants (88%) than controls (69%). The effect was strongest for "light" drinkers, African-Americans, and non-Protestants. This approach may be useful in clinics where staff time is limited.