National Alcohol and Other Drug-Related Birth Defects Week
May 11-17, 2008
Consumption of alcohol during pregnancy can result in Fetal Alcohol Syndrome (FAS) or other developmental challenges described as Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD) in children. A baby born with FAS has mental and physical disabilities, some of which may be severe and may include mental retardation. In addition, children born with FAS or FASD are over-represented in the population of children who end up in foster care or are adopted, adding to their vulnerability.
Experts have not been able to determine a minimum volume of alcohol that is safe to consume during pregnancy. Therefore, it is recommended that women avoid drinking alcohol entirely while pregnant.
Additional resources:
Information on FAS from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
Parent information on FAS from the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG)
ACOG clears confusion caused by misleading media reports about alcohol consumption during pregnancy
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