Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders, or FASDs, are a group of conditions that can occur as a result of a baby being exposed to alcohol in-utero. The most common of these is fetal alcohol syndrome, but there are other conditions to be aware of as well. These disorders can create a lot of health problems that can last a lifetime. But they are entirely preventable as long as a mother abstains from drinking during her entire pregnancy. If you are having trouble avoiding alcohol while pregnant, there are resources available. It’s important to get the help you need to quit drinking so that you can ensure that your baby is safe and healthy.
Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASDs) and How to Prevent Them
Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders
Several differed FASDs can result from being exposed to alcohol while in the womb. They are one of the leading causes of intellectual disability, but can also lead to malformations of the skeletal system and damage to major organ systems. Babies with fetal alcohol spectrum disorders might suffer from difficulties with learning, memory, social interaction, and motor skills. These conditions are life-long but symptoms can sometimes be managed by therapy and medication.
Most Common
Fetal Alcohol Syndrome is the most common of the FASDs. It can lead to issues with the central nervous system, growth problems, and social issues. Alcohol-Related Neurodevelopmental Disorders can create intellectual issues like learning disabilities and memory loss. Alcohol-Related Birth Defects often affect the kidneys, heart, or bones. Neurobehavioral Disorder Associated with Prenatal Alcohol Exposure can lead to issues with learning, behavioral problems, or difficulty with day-to-day tasks.
Prevention
FASDs are 100% preventable. There is no known safe amount of alcohol during pregnancy, so the best way to protect your child from any Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders is to avoid alcohol entirely. If you are trying to conceive or think that there is a chance that you could be pregnant, it’s important to abstain from drinking. Similarly, if you are pregnant, it’s safest to avoid all alcohol for the entirety of your pregnancy.
Getting Help
If you are struggling with alcohol during your pregnancy, there are resources available. Contact your doctor or reach out to a substance abuse counselor. They can help you navigate various treatment options. For example, rehabilitation facilities and in-patient and out-patient treatment plans. You can also look into local support groups and try out meetings, like Alcoholics Anonymous. If you suspect that your child might be suffering from FASDs, it’s important to get the opinion of a medical professional quickly.
FASDs, or Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders, can affect many areas of a child’s life and create life-long challenges. Fetal Alcohol Syndrome and others can create developmental issues, physical limitations, and intellectual challenges. The good news is that FASDs are preventable. There is no known amount of alcohol that is safe for a growing fetus, so all moms-to-be and women who are trying to get pregnant should avoid alcohol for the entirety of their pregnancy. There is help available if you are struggling to stay sober during pregnancy. Reach out to your doctor or local resources for help so that you can ensure that you protect your baby from any sort of issues related to prenatal alcohol exposure.
