Kids will have lifelong physical, learning, and behavioral problems. But many things can help children reach their full potential, especially if the problem is found early. Acknowledge that change is difficult, relate her drinking to problems she may be having, and consider referral https://ecosoberhouse.com/ to an addiction specialist or mutual help group. On subsequent visits document her alcohol use and review the goals she discussed with you previously. Ask if she has been able to meet and sustain her drinking goal. If her answer is yes, reinforce and support continued adherence.
Medical Professionals
Any continued alcohol use should be discussed regarding your own safety and that of future pregnancies. It’s also important to get help for a parent or caregiver who struggles with alcohol addiction. A physical exam of the baby may show a heart murmur or other heart problems. A common defect is a hole in the wall that separates the right and left lower chambers (ventricles) of the heart. To prevent FASDs, a woman should avoid alcohol if she is pregnant or might be pregnant. This is because a woman could get pregnant and not know for up to 4 to 6 weeks.
Take Care of Yourself Before Pregnancy
Individuals with FASDs are also at increased risk for experiencing mental health and substance use conditions. It’s important to note that symptoms can vary widely from person to person and are experienced throughout the lifespan, making early diagnosis and individualized support essential for improving outcomes. Any amount of alcohol during pregnancy can cause fetal alcohol syndrome.
Fetal alcohol spectrum disorder
Stigma is another barrier to diagnosis, as well as healthcare access. FASDs may have similar symptoms to other disorders and are often misdiagnosed. Children with FASD are nutritionally and socially vulnerable and may benefit from nutritional education and support. If you cannot stop drinking, talk with your doctor or contact local Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) groups or a local alcohol counselor or treatment center. AA is a cost-free fellowship of men and women who share their experience, strength, and hope with each other that they may solve their common problem and help others to recover from alcohol use disorder.
Charitable Care & Financial Assistance
Additionally, no set amount of alcohol causes FAS or other FASDs in every case. The volume of alcohol a person consumes has a significant effect on the risk, but other factors can also play a role. It is difficult to estimate how common FAS and other drunken fetal syndrome FASDs are, as the symptoms can be similar to those of other conditions. Additionally, because of stigma, some people may not disclose drinking during pregnancy. Scientists are still learning about the ways alcohol affects fetal development.
Is there a cure for fetal alcohol syndrome (FAS)?
- The more you drink while pregnant, the greater the risk to your unborn baby.
- It is difficult to estimate how common FAS and other FASDs are, as the symptoms can be similar to those of other conditions.
- If you’re currently pregnant and drinking alcohol, stop immediately to try to lower the risk of FAS.
- Every step toward education and understanding is a step toward a healthier future.
- International adoption from some countries may have a higher rate of alcohol use by pregnant mothers.
- After delivery, you should continue to pay attention to when you drink alcohol if you’re breastfeeding your baby.
Paternal Alcohol Use
- Even if you don’t drink every day, you may put your baby at risk for FASD if you drink alcohol.
- Some have argued that the FAS label stigmatizes alcohol use, while authorities point out that the risk is real.
- Prenatal alcohol exposure is a leading preventable cause of birth defects and neurodevelopmental abnormalities in the United States.
- It’s also recommended that you avoid beverages containing alcohol when you’re trying to become pregnant.
- FASD is completely avoidable if you do not drink alcohol while you’re pregnant.
