However, drinking any amount of alcohol during pregnancy can potentially increase the risk of developmental delays and birth defects. If a baby has exposure to alcohol in the womb, they can develop a range of conditions known as fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASDs). The drunken baby syndrome most severe of these disorders is fetal alcohol syndrome (FAS).
- It is advised to avoid all alcoholic beverages, including wine, beer, and low alcohol drinks, during pregnancy.
- These are a group of conditions present at birth that can happen when a pregnant person drinks alcohol.
- Alternative treatments also include movement techniques, such as exercise or yoga.
- Symptoms can vary in severity but include central nervous system (brain and spinal cord) damage, abnormal facial features, and growth impairment.
- Special education and social services can help very young children.
- When a pregnant woman stops drinking at any time during pregnancy, she decreases the risk of harm to her child.
- Alcohol in the mother’s blood passes to the baby through the umbilical cord.
Other FASD Diagnoses
If you are pregnant and can’t stop drinking alcohol, ask your obstetrician, primary care doctor or other healthcare professional for help. You also may choose to talk to a mental health professional. A social worker can direct you to community programs that offer Drug rehabilitation help, for example, Alcoholics Anonymous. If you suspect your child has fetal alcohol syndrome, talk to your doctor or other healthcare professional as soon as possible. This condition can be prevented if you don’t drink any alcohol during pregnancy.
Fetal alcohol syndrome
- Also, not all people who drink while pregnant feel comfortable talking to their healthcare provider.
- Seek medical care if you are pregnant or planning pregnancy and cannot stop drinking.
- The ultimate cause is alcohol intake by the pregnant mother.
- However, it is never too late for a pregnant mom to stop drinking since brain development happens throughout the pregnancy.
- These include healing practices, such as massage and acupuncture (the placement of thin needles into key body areas).
- Children with FAS will benefit from a stable and loving home.
Fetal alcohol syndrome (FAS) is a severe form of fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD) seen in babies born to mothers who drink during pregnancy. This condition is caused by the consumption of any type and amount of alcohol. It may have teratogenic effects causing permanent brain damage and growth problems in babies. According to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 0.2 to 1.5 infants in every 1,000 live births are identified with FAS in certain areas of the US(1). When a woman consumes alcohol while pregnant, her fetus is exposed directly to alcohol through her bloodstream. These effects, which can vary from mild to severe, may include physical, mental, behavioural, and/or learning disabilities with lifelong implications.
Illustration: Fetal Alcohol Syndrome (FAS) Causes Symptoms And Treatment
It is best to speak with a doctor who specializes in FAS, such as a developmental pediatrician, clinical geneticist, or child psychologist. The frequency, strength, and quantity of alcoholic drinks have an effect, as well as the timing of consumption. Drinking alcohol late in a pregnancy increases the likelihood of FAS. You can also find your nearest alcohol support services or read advice on cutting down your drinking and alcohol in pregnancy.
What is fetal alcohol syndrome (FAS)?
Fortunately, early diagnosis and treatment of FAS may alleviate any complications. If you are trying to conceive but unable to abstain from drinking, consider seeking the help of a therapist. Early intervention (EI) services are the most effective step in improving outcomes for children born with fetal alcohol syndrome. These state-run services vary by state but include evaluation and services based on your child’s developmental needs. A permanent condition, fetal alcohol syndrome (FAS) happens when a woman consumes any amount of alcohol during a pregnancy. Alcohol use during pregnancy can interfere with the baby’s development, causing physical and mental defects.
A child with FAS will not necessarily have all of these symptoms. Additionally, many of these symptoms can occur due to other conditions. A healthcare professional specializing in FAS can help determine the cause.
- Many people don’t know they’re pregnant for the first few weeks of pregnancy (four to six weeks).
- Hence, to prevent complications, alcohol consumption should be avoided during pregnancy and immediately after stopping any birth control methods.
- However, the most common and consistent features of FAS involve the growth, performance, intelligence, head and face, skeleton, and heart of the child.
- It is best to speak with a doctor who specializes in FAS, such as a developmental pediatrician, clinical geneticist, or child psychologist.
- A healthcare professional specializing in FAS can help determine the cause.