Alcohol and Pregnancy

1. Alcohol and Pregnancy Consuming alcohol during pregnancy has multiple side effects on the fetal development. This condition is termed as Fetal Alcohol Syndrome (FAS), which leads to severe consequences as the prenatal gets exposed to alcohol having deformities causing lifelong disabilities in affected children. Understanding FAS is important for new mothers, healthcare professionals/providers and the community to make them know the importance and how to prevent its impact. Fetal alcohol syndrome is a condition where the developing baby is affected by the consumption of alcohol during pregnancies. A syndrome is characterized by multiple abnormalities, like physical, behavioral, and neurological, due to alcohol exposure, categorized as Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD). FAS is a life-long condition that can’t be cured and can only be prevented by avoiding alcohol during pregnancy, which damages the developing fetus. Alcohol Consumption During Pregnancy The developing fetus tissues are very delicate and easily get affected by toxicity of alcohol leading to abnormal formation. Alcohol crosses the placenta and affects the fetus differently based on timing, duration, and amount of exposure. It basically varies among trimesters, during the first trimester it defects in formation of major organs and leads to physical abnormalities. In the second trimester intake of alcohol affects the growth of organs and its

2. functions. Likewise in the third trimester, it affects the brain and dysfunctions to critical conditions leading to death of the newborn. No amount of alcohol is safe during pregnancies, impairing fetal development as it’s crucial for expectant mothers to prevent FAS and other FASD. Public health guidelines are suggested to educate that would help to support women who are pregnant or planning to become pregnant. As it plays an vital role providing proper decisions about alcohol during pregnancy and the importance of protecting developing fetuses. Physical symptoms include facial abnormalities such as a flat skin surface, a thin upper lip, a small eye opening, and no ridge formation between the nose and lips. Growth defects like low or underweight and in height also lead to multiple dysfunctions forming organ abnormalities. Neurological and developmental effects include memory, intellectual disabilities, and learning difficulties; behavioral problems such as hyperactivity and poor impulse control; and delayed development of speech and motor skills. Long-term impacts include difficulties in school and other activities with an increased risk of mental health disorders and addiction to substances in later life, creating challenges, developmental difficulties, and independence in life. Fetal alcohol syndrome is not curable, and the symptoms impact the child throughout their life. Here’s how early Fetal Alcohol Syndrome treatment can reduce the severity and improve the child’s development. Treatment includes: Medications to treat some symptoms, like attention and behavioral issues. Undergoing therapies like behaviors and education are effective for treating emotional and learning concerns. Most important is parental training, where parents help children cope with challenges they face by changing day-to-day routines and rules that can help their child adapt easily. This can help avoid developing mental and emotional challenges at a later age. 1. What is Fetal Alcohol Syndrome (FAS)? 2. Fetal Alcohol Syndrome Features: Symptoms & Causes Experiencing problems ? Visit our hospital right away! GET A FREE SECOND OPINION For more details visit : yashodahospitals.com