The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention issued a report stating that 15.2% of pregnant women in the United States admitted to currently drinking alcohol. Even though the public has long known the health risks to newborns concerning drinking during pregnancy, at least 3 out of every 20 women continue to do so.
The CDC Report’s Findings
The CDC published the findings on June 11, 2026, drawing on Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System data collected from 2021 through 2024. Alongside the 15.2% of those who currently drink, researchers observed that nearly 5% of pregnant women reported binge drinking and 2.2% reported heavy drinking in the previous 30 days.
Federal health officials note that no amount of alcohol has been established as safe during pregnancy. Even if drinkers don’t experience seizures or shakes, liquor takes a toll on both the mother and her fetus. That baseline makes these numbers a useful prompt for early conversations about screening and support.
A Broader Maternal Health Picture
The findings land amid wider attention to maternal health as access to behavioral health care remains uneven across regions. The self-reported survey data likely undercounts true use, since some people are reluctant to disclose drinking and drug misuse, especially during pregnancy, so the real figure may be higher.Â
Family members have a pretty clear the practical takeaway. Screenings and assessments during routine prenatal visits, paired with a clear path to treatment and therapy, gives people the best chance to address alcohol use before it affects a pregnancy.
This Matters for Treatment Seekers
For someone researching rehab, the report reminds us that alcohol use in pregnancy is more common than many assume. Asking for help early tends to lead to better outcomes for parent and child.
Fear of judgment can keep people from raising the subject with a doctor, yet treatment for alcohol use disorder and its withdrawal symptoms are confidential and many plans cover it. Knowing that drinking during pregnancy is widespread can make it easier to start that conversation without shame.
When comparing options, it helps to ask whether a program has experience supporting pregnant or postpartum patients, how it coordinates with prenatal care, and for the medical staff credentials. Verifying that a facility is licensed and reviewing how it handles co-occurring needs can narrow the field quickly.
In addition, when enrolling, settle the cost and insurance questions up front, since coverage for alcohol addiction treatment varies by plan and state.
Find the Right Rehab
If you or someone you love wants to consider treatment, a few concrete next steps can move things forward. Compare treatment centers and their approaches, confirm insurance coverage, and verify each facility’s credentials before committing.Â
Our fully browsable directory lists verified treatment centers nationwide. Or, dial
800-985-8516
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to speak with a treatment advisor about alcohol addiction treatment options.
