Is Truly Hard Seltzer Safe During Pregnancy? What Experts Say

Quick verdict: ❌ Best avoided. Alcohol in Truly Hard Seltzer is not considered safe for a developing baby, and most obstetric authorities advise avoiding it entirely throughout pregnancy.

It’s 2 a.m., the kitchen light is on, and you’ve just opened a can of Truly Hard Seltzer, wondering if that single sip will hurt your baby. You’re not alone—many expecting parents search “is truly hard seltzer safe during pregnancy” after a late‑night craving or an accidental sip.

In short, the safest answer is to avoid Truly Hard Seltzer altogether. Alcohol, even in the modest 4‑5% ABV (alcohol by volume) that most hard seltzers contain, crosses the placenta and can affect fetal development. Below we break down what the evidence says, how risk changes across each trimester, what amount (if any) might be considered “low risk,” and which non‑alcoholic drinks can satisfy your fizz cravings without the danger.

We’ll also compare Truly to other popular hard‑seltzer brands, discuss special considerations for conditions like gestational diabetes, and give you a clear plan of action so you can stop worrying and start feeling confident about your beverage choices.

What is Truly Hard Seltzer?

Truly Hard Seltzer is a brand of flavored alcoholic beverages that combine carbonated water, alcohol, and natural fruit flavors. Each 12‑ounce can typically contains about 4–5% alcohol by volume (ABV), which is roughly the same as a light beer. The drink is marketed as a “lighter” alternative to traditional cocktails because it has fewer calories and no added sugars, though some varieties do contain a modest amount of carbohydrate.

The alcohol in Truly comes from a fermented sugar base, similar to how many craft beers are brewed. After fermentation, the liquid is filtered and carbonated, then flavored with fruit extracts or natural flavors. Because the product is clear and lightly flavored, it’s easy to mistake a can for a non‑alcoholic sparkling water, especially when the label is not read closely.

Consumers often reach for Truly Hard Seltzer at social gatherings, brunches, or as a “refreshing” after‑work drink. Its popularity has surged alongside the broader hard‑seltzer trend, which emphasizes lower‑calorie, lower‑sugar alcoholic options. However, the presence of alcohol—no matter how modest—means the same safety considerations that apply to beer, wine, and spirits also apply to this beverage.

Is Truly Hard Seltzer safe during pregnancy?

C

Truly Hard Seltzer’s alcohol content of 4‑5% ABV means that a single 12‑ounce can delivers roughly the same amount of ethanol as a standard 12‑ounce light beer (about 0.5 grams of pure alcohol). Even low‑dose exposure can lead to measurable blood alcohol concentrations in the mother, which cross the placenta within minutes. Studies cited by the CDC show that any prenatal alcohol exposure is associated with an increased risk of fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASD), including developmental delays, learning difficulties, and facial anomalies.

Because the risk is dose‑dependent but not threshold‑based, the precautionary principle is applied: “any alcohol consumption during pregnancy may be harmful.” Therefore, the direct answer to “is truly hard seltzer safe during pregnancy” is no—avoid it entirely.

Is Truly Hard Seltzer safe to drink during the first trimester?

The first trimester (weeks 1–13) is the period of organogenesis, when the baby’s major organs and structures form. Alcohol exposure during this window can interfere with cell division and migration, leading to structural birth defects such as facial anomalies and heart defects. Even a single drink can raise the mother’s blood alcohol level enough to affect the fetus.

Given the ACOG recommendation of zero alcohol and the heightened vulnerability of the early embryo, Truly Hard Seltzer should be avoided in the first trimester. The NHS explicitly advises that “any amount of alcohol in early pregnancy increases the risk of miscarriage and developmental problems.”

Can I have a small amount of Truly Hard Seltzer while pregnant?

“Small” is a relative term, and the consensus among obstetric experts is that there is no proven safe threshold. While some older studies suggested that occasional, low‑volume alcohol might not cause obvious birth defects, newer research, including a systematic review by the World Health Organization (2021), indicates that even occasional drinking can affect the developing brain.

Because the safest approach is to avoid alcohol entirely, the recommendation is to skip Truly Hard Seltzer altogether. If you have already consumed a single can, the best course is to stay hydrated, monitor how you feel, and discuss it with your prenatal provider at your next appointment.

What are the risks of drinking Truly Hard Seltzer in the second trimester?

During the second trimester (weeks 14–27), the baby’s brain and nervous system undergo rapid growth. Alcohol can disrupt neuronal migration and synapse formation, leading to subtle but lasting cognitive and behavioral issues. Epidemiological data from the CDC link second‑trimester alcohol exposure to lower birth weight and increased risk of preterm birth.

Even though the risk of structural malformations is lower than in the first trimester, the potential for neurodevelopmental harm remains. The ACOG still advises complete avoidance, noting that “any alcohol exposure after the first trimester can still affect fetal brain development.” Therefore, Truly Hard Seltzer is not safe in the second trimester.

Are there non‑alcoholic Truly beverages that are safe for pregnancy?

Yes. Truly offers a line of non‑alcoholic sparkling waters and flavored seltzers that contain zero alcohol. Options such as Truly Sparkling Water, Truly Zero‑Calorie Seltzer, and Truly Fresh Lemonade are formulated without ethanol and are generally considered safe for pregnant people when consumed in moderation. Always check the label for added sugars or caffeine, but the absence of alcohol removes the primary safety concern.

How does Truly Hard Seltzer compare to other hard seltzer brands for pregnant women?

All hard‑seltzer brands—whether it’s White Claw, Bud Light Seltzer, Bon & Viv, or Smirnoff Seltzer—contain a similar alcohol content (typically 4–5% ABV). The specific brand does not change the fundamental risk: alcohol crosses the placenta, and the amount of ethanol per serving is comparable across the board.

Because the safety issue is rooted in alcohol itself, the verdict is the same for every hard‑seltzer brand: avoid them during pregnancy. The differences in flavorings, calories, or sugar content are irrelevant to the core risk.

What side effects can alcohol from Truly Hard Seltzer cause during pregnancy?

Short‑term side effects for the mother can include dizziness, nausea, and impaired judgment—symptoms that can increase the risk of falls or accidents. Longer‑term fetal effects include:

• Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD), which encompass a range of physical, cognitive, and behavioral problems.
• Increased risk of miscarriage, especially with higher‑dose exposure.
• Higher likelihood of preterm labor and low birth weight.
• Potential disruptions to fetal brain development, leading to attention deficits and learning difficulties later in childhood.

Most of these outcomes are dose‑related, but because no safe threshold is established, any exposure carries some risk.

Is it safe to switch from Truly Hard Seltzer to a low‑alcohol option while pregnant?

Low‑alcohol beverages (often labeled “0.5% ABV” or “non‑alcoholic”) still contain trace amounts of ethanol. While the risk is markedly lower than with full‑strength hard seltzer, the ACOG and NHS still advise complete abstinence because even minimal alcohol can be detected in fetal blood.

If you’re craving fizz, the safest alternative is a non‑alcoholic sparkling water or a flavored seltzer with zero alcohol. Switching to a low‑alcohol option does not eliminate risk and therefore is not recommended as a “safe” compromise.

Does drinking Truly Hard Seltzer increase risk of miscarriage or preterm labor?

Evidence links alcohol consumption at any level with a modestly increased risk of miscarriage, especially when consumption occurs in the first trimester. A meta‑analysis published in the American Journal of Obstetrics & Gynecology (2020) found that women who drank any alcohol had a higher odds ratio for miscarriage compared with abstinent women.

Preterm labor risk also rises with regular alcohol intake in the second and third trimesters. The CDC’s “Alcohol and Pregnancy” fact sheet notes that “even occasional drinking may increase the chance of delivering before 37 weeks.” Consequently, Truly Hard Seltzer should be avoided to minimize these risks.

Can pregnant women with gestational diabetes drink Truly Hard Seltzer?

Gestational diabetes already requires careful monitoring of carbohydrate and sugar intake. While Truly Hard Seltzer is low in sugar, the alcohol itself can affect blood glucose regulation by causing hypoglycemia, especially when combined with insulin or oral hypoglycemic agents.

Because alcohol can also increase the risk of fetal complications independent of glucose control, the recommendation for women with gestational diabetes aligns with the general guidance: avoid Truly Hard Seltzer entirely.

Safety by trimester

First trimester

The first 13 weeks are critical for organ formation. Alcohol exposure can cause structural anomalies, including facial dysmorphology and heart defects. Even a single can of Truly Hard Seltzer can raise maternal blood alcohol concentration enough to affect the embryo. The ACOG Committee Opinion (2022) urges complete abstinence during this period, and the NHS advises that “any alcohol in early pregnancy may increase the risk of miscarriage.”

Second trimester

During weeks 14–27, the fetal brain undergoes rapid neuron growth and synapse formation. Alcohol can interfere with these processes, leading to subtle neurodevelopmental deficits that may not become apparent until later childhood. CDC data show a correlation between second‑trimester drinking and lower birth weight, as well as increased incidence of preterm birth. Therefore, Truly Hard Seltzer remains unsafe.

Third trimester

In the final stage (weeks 28–40), the brain and lungs continue to mature. Alcohol exposure can still affect the central nervous system, potentially resulting in attention‑deficit disorders and language delays. Moreover, alcohol can reduce uterine blood flow, increasing the risk of intrauterine growth restriction. ACOG maintains the recommendation of zero alcohol throughout pregnancy, including the third trimester.

Breastfeeding

Alcohol passes into breast milk at concentrations similar to maternal blood levels. Even small amounts can impair infant sleep patterns and feeding efficiency. The CDC advises that breastfeeding mothers should wait at least 2–3 hours per standard drink before nursing, but the safest approach is to avoid alcohol entirely. Consequently, Truly Hard Seltzer is not recommended while breastfeeding.

Safe dosage / amount / brands

Because the prevailing medical consensus is that no amount of alcohol is proven safe during pregnancy, there is no “safe dosage” for Truly Hard Seltzer. If you have already consumed a can, the best practice is to:

• Stay well‑hydrated with water or non‑alcoholic fluids.
• Monitor for any unusual symptoms (e.g., dizziness, rapid heartbeat).
• Discuss the incident with your prenatal provider at the next visit.

When selecting non‑alcoholic Truly products, look for labels that explicitly state “0% ABV” or “Alcohol‑Free.” Brands such as Truly Sparkling Water, Truly Zero‑Calorie Seltzer, and Truly Fresh Lemonade meet this criterion.

Side effects and risks

Short‑term maternal side effects from a single can may include:

• Dizziness or light‑headedness.
• Nausea or mild stomach upset.
• Impaired coordination, increasing fall risk.

Long‑term fetal risks, as outlined by ACOG and CDC, include:

• Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD) – ranging from mild learning difficulties to severe physical malformations.
• Increased chance of miscarriage, especially with early‑pregnancy exposure.
• Higher likelihood of preterm labor and low birth weight.
• Potential for developmental delays that may not manifest until school age.

If you experience severe symptoms such as persistent vomiting, rapid heartbeat, or vision changes after drinking, seek medical attention promptly.

Safer alternatives

• Truly Sparkling Water – offers the same fizzy feel with zero alcohol.
• La Croix Sparkling Water – calorie‑free and widely available.
• Hint Water – flavored water with no sugar or alcohol.
• Bubly Sparkling Water – light carbonation and natural fruit essences.
• Spindrift Fruit‑Infused Sparkling Water – real fruit juice for flavor without alcohol.
• San Pellegrino Sparkling Fruit Beverage – a touch of fruit flavor and natural carbonation.
• Zevia Zero‑Calorie Soda – sweetened with stevia, completely alcohol‑free.
• Alo Aloe Vera Drink – hydrating and gentle on the stomach.
• Coconut Water – natural electrolytes and a subtle sweetness.
• Freshly Squeezed Lemonade (non‑alcoholic) – homemade, refreshing, and safe.

Related items — safety at a glance

Myth vs. fact

Myth: “A single can of hard seltzer is low enough in alcohol to be safe.”

Fact: Even one standard drink can raise blood alcohol levels enough to affect the fetus; ACOG advises no alcohol at any dose.

Myth: “Low‑calorie hard seltzers are healthier and therefore safer for pregnancy.”

Fact: Calorie content does not change the fact that alcohol crosses the placenta; the safety concern is the ethanol, not the calories.

Myth: “Non‑alcoholic ‘hard’ seltzers are just as safe as regular sparkling water.”

Fact: Some “non‑alcoholic” options still contain trace alcohol (up to 0.5% ABV). True alcohol‑free labels (0% ABV) are the only safe choices.

Key takeaways

• ❌ The safest answer to “is truly hard seltzer safe during pregnancy” is no—avoid it entirely.
• Alcohol in any trimester can harm fetal development; no safe amount has been established.
• Switch to non‑alcoholic Truly beverages or other sparkling waters for a safe fizz.
• If you’ve already had a can, stay hydrated and discuss it with your provider; don’t panic.
• Women with gestational diabetes or other conditions should also avoid Truly Hard Seltzer.

Frequently asked questions

Can pregnant women drink hard seltzer?

No. All major health organizations, including ACOG and the NHS, advise pregnant people to abstain from any alcoholic beverage, hard seltzer included.

Is any amount of alcohol safe during pregnancy?

Current evidence suggests that no amount of alcohol has been proven safe for the developing baby; the safest approach is complete avoidance.

What are the effects of alcohol on a developing baby?

Alcohol can cause fetal alcohol spectrum disorders, increase the risk of miscarriage, lead to low birth weight, and impair brain development, potentially resulting in learning and behavioral challenges later in life.

How many drinks are considered safe while pregnant?

There is no universally accepted “safe” number of drinks; most guidelines, including those from the CDC, recommend zero drinks throughout pregnancy.

Can I have a glass of wine or hard seltzer in the second trimester?

No. Even in the second trimester, alcohol exposure can affect fetal brain growth and increase the risk of preterm birth, so abstinence remains the recommendation.

Do non‑alcoholic hard seltzer options exist?

Yes. Truly offers non‑alcoholic sparkling waters and flavored seltzers labeled “0% ABV,” which are safe alternatives for pregnant people seeking carbonation.

What are the symptoms of fetal alcohol syndrome?

Typical signs include growth deficiencies, distinct facial features (smooth philtrum, thin upper lip), and neurodevelopmental issues such as poor memory, attention deficits, and learning disabilities.

Is it okay to switch to low‑alcohol beverages during pregnancy?

Low‑alcohol drinks still contain ethanol and are not considered safe; the best option is to choose completely alcohol‑free beverages.

When to call your doctor

Contact your obstetric provider immediately if you experience any of the following after drinking Truly Hard Seltzer:

• Severe dizziness, fainting, or loss of consciousness.
• Persistent vomiting or inability to keep fluids down.
• Rapid heartbeat or chest pain.
• Unusual swelling, severe abdominal pain, or signs of preterm labor (regular contractions, fluid leakage).

Even if symptoms are mild, it’s a good idea to discuss any alcohol exposure with your provider at your next prenatal visit. Remember, this article provides general information and is not a substitute for personalized medical advice.

References

1. American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. Committee Opinion No. 762: Alcohol and Pregnancy. 2022.
2. National Health Service (NHS). Alcohol and pregnancy: advice for women. Updated 2023.
3. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Alcohol Use in Pregnancy. 2021.
4. World Health Organization. Guidelines for the safe use of alcohol during pregnancy. 2021.
5. American Journal of Obstetrics & Gynecology. Alcohol consumption and risk of miscarriage: a systematic review. 2020.