Fetal Alcohol Syndrome is just one possible condition of children born to mothers who consume alcohol or abuse drugs during pregnancy. Although there is no cure for this condition, it’s important to let your doctor know if you believe your baby has fetal alcohol syndrome because an early diagnosis can reduce the risk of many problems.
Definition of Fetal Alcohol Syndrome
Fetal Alcohol Syndrome, or FAS, is a condition that’s caused by exposure to alcohol during pregnancy. Children with Fetal Alcohol Syndrome usually have learning disabilities, behavioral problems, vision problems, mental retardation and physical deformities.
Defects caused by FAS are permanent and irreversible, although symptoms vary by child. Alcohol easily crosses the placental barrier and also stunts fetal growth and weight, damages brain structures and creates distinctive facial deformities. As the brain develops throughout the entire pregnancy, exposure to alcohol at any point of the pregnancy can lead to Fetal Alcohol Syndrome. There is no known safe amount of alcohol to consume during pregnancy.
This condition is also the leading cause of mental retardation in the United States and Europe. FAS should not be confused with Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD), which is a spectrum of disorders including Fetal Alcohol Syndrome.
The Real Definition of Fetal Alcohol Syndrome
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