Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD) - Fetal Alcohol Syndrome (FAS)

Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD);Fetal Alcohol Syndrome (FAS)

Fetal Alcohol Syndrome is one of the most common causes of mental retardation and the only one that is 100% preventable. The effects are irreversible and last a lifetime.

The effects of FAS include: mental retardation, malformations of the skeletal system and major organ systems (specifically the heart and brain), growth deficiencies, central nervous system problems, poor motor skills, mortality, and problems with learning, memory, social interaction, attention span, problem solving, speech and/or hearing.

There are also facial features that are characteristic of babies with FAS. These features include: small eyes, short or upturned nose, flat cheeks, and thin lips. These features fade as the child grows up, but the child is left with a lifetime of difficulties trying to cope with other effects.

What are Fetal Alcohol Effects ?

The two categories for Fetal Alcohol Effects are Alcohol-Related Neurodevelopmental Disorder (ARND) and Alcohol-Related Birth Defects (ARBD):

ARND describes the mental and behavioral impairments such as learning disabilities, poor school performance, poor impulse control, and problems with memory, attention and/or judgment.

ARBD describes the malformations of the skeletal system and major organ systems such as defects of the heart, kidneys, bones, and/or auditory system.

How is Fetal Alcohol Syndrome different from Fetal Alcohol Effects ?

Fetal Alcohol Syndrome is a result of high doses of alcohol consumption during pregnancy such as binge drinking and/or drinking on a regular basis. Fetal Alcohol Effects are a result of moderate drinking throughout pregnancy. The effects of FAE are still irreversible and lifelong.

Is any amount of alcohol safe to drink ?

There is no amount of alcohol that is safe to consume during your pregnancy, but the more alcohol consumed, the greater the risk to your developing baby.

How can I prevent FAS and FAE ?