During pregnancy, it’s crucial for women to be mindful of what they consume. The food and drinks that a pregnant woman takes in not only affect her own health but also contribute to the development of the baby. One risk that comes with drinking alcohol during pregnancy is Fetal Alcohol Syndrome (FAS) in the newborn.

Fetal Alcohol Syndrome

According to WebMD, fetal alcohol syndrome (FAS) is a condition caused by a pregnant woman’s habitual consumption of alcoholic beverages. FAS can lead to fetal alcohol disorder, which includes learning difficulties, serious behavioral problems, stunted growth, and facial abnormalities.

This condition occurs because when a pregnant woman drinks alcohol, the baby’s liver is not yet fully developed and cannot break down the alcohol that passes through the placenta. This results in damage to the fetus’s organs. Other potential consequences of drinking alcohol during pregnancy include miscarriage, premature birth, stillbirth, and heart and kidney issues for the baby.

Symptoms of Fetal Alcohol Syndrome During Childhood

Detecting fetal alcohol syndrome in children can be challenging. A thorough clinical assessment is required for an accurate diagnosis, and symptoms often don’t appear until the child is older, typically over the age of one.

According to the Mayo Clinic, the symptoms in children can vary in severity and include a range of physical abnormalities, cognitive impairment, and behavioral disorders.

1. Physical Abnormalities

Children with FAS often exhibit distinctive facial features, including small eyes, a thin upper lip, short nose, small head and brain size.

In addition to these facial features, children may also suffer from heart defects, kidney and bone issues, and may experience difficulty concentrating or hearing problems.

2. Brain and Central Nervous System Disorders

These issues typically become noticeable as the child’s thinking and cognitive abilities develop. Some common symptoms include learning disabilities and developmental delays, poor memory, difficulty with information processing, trouble understanding the consequences of actions, mood swings, and a tendency toward hyperactivity.

3. Social Behavioral Disorders

Children with FAS may also experience social difficulties, such as:

• Problems with socializing at school

• Difficulty adapting to changes or transitioning from one task to another

• Trouble planning tasks

• Difficulty understanding the concept of time

Currently, there is no medication to treat fetal alcohol syndrome. Treatment typically focuses on supporting the child’s physical development, such as walking, talking, and social interaction. Medical treatment may also be necessary for issues such as vision and heart problems. Parents may also receive counseling to help manage the challenges of raising a child with FAS.

While some people may enjoy drinking alcohol, it is important to remember that drinking during pregnancy can have long-lasting effects on your baby’s health. If you are planning to conceive, consider limiting or avoiding alcohol altogether.

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