Alcohol Use During Pregnancy
Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders
Is it safe for mothers to drink alcohol
during pregnancy?
When a mother drinks alcohol any time during pregnancy, a range of conditions can result that affect the baby. The alcohol passes to the fetus through the mother’s blood which can affect brain and spinal cord cells, damaging the growth of baby’s cells.
According to the CDC, “There is no known safe amount of alcohol use during pregnancy or while trying to get pregnant. There is also no safe time for alcohol use during pregnancy. All types of alcohol are equally harmful, including all wines and beer. FASDs are preventable if a baby is not exposed to alcohol before birth.”
Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders
FASDs
There are a range of the effects of alcohol on the baby, but some early signs may include:
Decreased placental size affecting nutrient transport and blood flow to baby
Low birth weight
Poor infant feeding
Sleep disruptions
Small and large motor skill delays
Speech and language delays
Nursing or sucking problems
Hearing and vision problems
Small head size
Distinct facial features
Attention disorders
Children with FASDs may go on to have difficulties in school, poor attention span, sensory issues, mental health challenges and communication issues.