Last Updated on December 10, 2019 by Valarie Ward

Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) is a blanket term used to describe the array of effects being exposed to alcohol while in utero has on an individual. According to the NCADD, “it is often a hidden disability.”

A mother-to-be has more to worry about than herself. She is carrying an unborn life, and how she cares for her body during pregnancy dramatically affects her child’s health. Some birth defects and inherited medical conditions are unavoidable; no amount of good decisions will make a different. However, many defects and conditions can be prevented. FASD is one.

The Aftermath of Alcohol Post Pregnancy

The Institute of Medicine reports that alcohol produces “the most serious neurobehavioral effects in [a] fetus.” The damage it can cause is considered worse than other substances of abuse, including heroin and cocaine. Alcohol may be legal, but its effects—especially on an unborn child—can be disastrous.

FASD can cause a number of physical, behavioral, and learning problems. In most cases, it is identified by slowness of growth, abnormal facial features, and central nervous system problems. The resulting disabilities can range from mild to severe, and the majority of them have life-long implications.

Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder has a direct effect on quality of life. It can severely limit the affected individual’s ability to attain independence and lead productive lives.

Preventing and Curing FASD

FASD cannot be cured. The disorder is a life-long condition. Although proper diagnosis, treatment, and the continued support of family and friends can aid in developing coping skills, the affected individual will never lead a normal life.

The NCADD reports that studies focusing on children diagnosed with FASD found their health costs are increased by a factor of nine. Life-long care is estimated to cost at least 2 million dollars. One of the most recent studies pegs the annual cost of FASD to the US healthcare system at over 6 billion dollars, and costs are only expected to increase in the years to come.

Prevention of FASD is 100% possible, and it all hinges on Mom! Avoiding all alcohol while pregnant can prevent the disorder. This includes occasional drinking.

Women who binge drink, which means ingesting five or more drinks on a single occasion, are at the highest risk for causing their unborn child to develop FASD. Interestingly, excessive drinking is not the only catalyst for the development of Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder in an unborn child. Even minimal ingestion of alcohol can cause it.

Many women are often pregnant for one to two months of their pregnancy without realizing it. Early detection is thus important.

Kicking Alcohol Before or During Pregnancy

If you are trying to get pregnant or suspect you may be pregnant, the best action you can take is to kick alcohol altogether. The existence of Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder is further evidence that alcohol and pregnancy don’t mix.

If you or someone you know is struggling with the misuse or abuse of alcohol, do not delay. Get help today by contacting us!