Fetal Alcohol Syndrome

Fetal alcohol syndrome (FAS) is a birth defect caused exposure of the fetus to alcohol during gestation.  Ultimately, this is caused by a woman drinking during pregnancy. It affects between 3 and 22 children in 10,000 live births. FAS causes a range of medical and behavioral problems that continue throughout life.

A child with FAS may grow more slowly than other children, may have facial abnormalities and may have varying degrees of mental retardation. Children with FAS may have some of the symptoms or signs but not all.

A woman who drinks during pregnancy can harm the growing fetus. Exactly how alcohol harms the fetus isn't fully understood, but alcohol it easily crosses the placenta into the developing fetus. Birth defects associated with facial abnormalities generally occur during the first three to eight weeks of pregnancy, often before a woman knows she is pregnant. Birth defects associated with delayed growth and central nervous system problems can occur any time during the pregnancy.  This means that alcohol should not be consumed at any time during the pregnancy. .

FAS can only occur when a woman drinks during pregnancy. It is not a hereditary problem. Some children appear to be more susceptible to FAS than others, but why that's so is unknown.

There is no cure for FAS, although it is completely preventable if a woman abstains from alcohol while she is pregnant. A child born with FAS can get treatment to help him achieve his maximum potential.

What to Do

If you are pregnant, don't drink. Any kind of alcohol - whether wine, beer or mixed drink - can harm your child. If you were drinking before you knew you were pregnant, stop now. If you want to get pregnant, don't drink. Any alcohol you drink can harm the fetus even before you know you are pregnant. Talk to your doctor if you are pregnant. Make sure you have prenatal care. Discuss any questions you have about drinking with your doctor.

Special Concerns for Children With Fetal Alcohol Syndrome

A child with FAS may grow more slowly than other children, may have facial abnormalities and may have mental retardation. Children with FAS may have some of the symptoms or signs but not all.