In this article, we look at why FAS occurs and its symptoms, treatments, and risk factors. We also discuss how people can prevent FAS and when to see a doctor. However, with early identification and support, children with FAS can learn important skills that can aid their development. You can also find your nearest alcohol support services or read advice on cutting down your drinking and alcohol in pregnancy.

How are fetal alcohol spectrum disorders diagnosed?

There is no “safe” amount of alcohol you can drink during pregnancy. And there is no time during pregnancy when it’s considered safe to drink alcohol, either. There isn’t a direct test for FAS and pregnant people may not give a complete history of all alcohol intake during pregnancy.

Early childhood and beyond

Even light or moderate drinking can affect the developing fetus. To diagnose someone with FAS, the doctor must determine that they have drunken baby syndrome abnormal facial features, slower than normal growth, and central nervous system problems. These nervous system problems could be physical or behavioral. They might present as hyperactivity, lack of coordination or focus, or learning disabilities. The most effective treatments for fetal alcohol syndrome target your child’s specific issues.

How Can Alcohol Affect a Fetus?

• There is no “safe” amount of alcohol you can drink during pregnancy.
• No, but early diagnosis and treatment for specific FAS symptoms can greatly improve your child’s life.
• And as the baby continues to develop in the womb, it’s damaging to drink at any time during pregnancy.
• However, most studies have not researched FAS symptoms in people over the age of 30.

FASDs can happen only when a pregnant woman consumes alcohol. The alcohol crosses the placenta and enters the baby’s blood where it can damage the developing brain and other organs leading to an FASD. FASDs are 100% preventable if a woman does not drink alcohol during pregnancy.

How Are Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders Diagnosed?

All children with involvement in foster care or adoption processes―especially international adoptions―should always be evaluated for a possible FASD. Many drugs can pass from the mother’s blood stream through the placenta Sober living home to the fetus. Alcohol is broken down more slowly in the immature body of the fetus than in an adult’s body.

• Doctors may look at behavioral symptoms, such as attention and coordination.
• Prenatal alcohol exposure causes every individual with any diagnosis within the spectrum of FASD to experience some form of permanent brain dysfunction.
• Stigma is another barrier to diagnosis, as well as healthcare access.

Any amount of alcohol during pregnancy can cause fetal alcohol syndrome. Damage to your developing baby can happen at any point during pregnancy. All alcohol, including beer, wine, ciders and hard liquor can all cause FAS. Second, there is stigma surrounding FASDs that reinforces its lack of acknowledgement both clinically and socially.

• Although there is no treatment for FAS, there are strategies that can improve its symptoms.
• Fetal alcohol syndrome is the most severe condition within a group of conditions called fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASDs).
• It is a lifelong condition affecting people through adulthood.
• Before trying any alternative therapy for FAS, parents or caregivers should speak with the child’s pediatrician or a doctor who specializes in FASDs.
• During the first three months of pregnancy, important stages of development happen with the face and organs such as the heart, bones, brain and nerves.

Your child may be referred to a specialist team for an assessment if there’s a possibility they have the condition. Choose a symptom and answer simple questions using our physician-reviewed Symptom Checker to find a possible diagnosis for your health issue. Everyone with FASD is unique, and people with FASD each have different particular challenges. About half of the pregnancies in the United States aren’t planned, leaving the opportunity for accidental alcohol use in the first few pivotal months of gestation. To prevent FASDs, a woman should avoid alcohol if she is pregnant or might be pregnant.