How does alcohol influence the baby in womb?
Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASDs)
Alcohol use during pregnancy can have serious consequences for the baby. The umbrella term for these range of conditions is Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASDs).
It is important to note that there is no known safe amount of alcohol consumption during pregnancy. Even a single instance of drinking alcohol can cause harmful effects on the developing fetus.
The types of FASDs and their symptoms can vary depending on the severity of alcohol exposure.
1. Fetal Alcohol Syndrome (FAS):
This is the most severe form of FASD and occurs when a pregnant woman drinks heavily throughout her pregnancy. Symptoms of FAS may include:
- Low birth weight
- Prenatal and postnatal growth retardation
- Characteristic facial features, such as a smooth philtrum (the ridge between the nose and upper lip), thin upper lip, and short palpebral fissures (eye openings)
- Neurocognitive problems, including intellectual disability, learning disabilities, and memory issues
- Vision and hearing problems
- Heart defects
- Kidney problems
2. Alcohol-Related Neurodevelopmental Disorder (ARND):
ARND is a less severe form of FASD that occurs when a pregnant woman drinks moderately to heavily during pregnancy. Symptoms of ARND may include:
- Learning disabilities
- Memory problems
- Attention problems
- Social and behavioral problems
- Hyperactivity
- Impulsivity
- Difficulty with problem-solving
3. Alcohol-Related Birth Defects (ARBDs):
ARBDs are a group of birth defects that can occur as a result of alcohol consumption during pregnancy. These may include:
- Cleft lip and/or palate
- Limb defects
- Heart defects
- Kidney problems
- Vision problems
- Hearing loss
It's crucial for pregnant women to abstain from alcohol completely to avoid any potential harm to their unborn child.
If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, it is important to talk to your healthcare provider about the effects of alcohol on fetal development.