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Drinking alcohol during pregnancy puts your developing baby at risk of Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder or FASD.
Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) is the term used to describe the problems and disorders resulting from alcohol use during pregnancy. These can include brain damage, vision and hearing problems, slow growth, and birth defects such as heart problems or bones that are not properly formed. Brain damage associated with FASD can involve lifelong problems with attention, memory, reasoning and judgment. People with FASD are also at high risk of secondary disabilities such as mental health concerns, disrupted schooling, and addictions.
Alcohol use during pregnancy can harm the baby. Exactly how much alcohol it takes to cause harm is not known. The potential harm to the developing baby depends on the amount of alcohol consumed and any other drugs used, as well as the mother’s health, safety, genetics and other factors.
There is no safe time to drink alcohol during pregnancy. The developing brain and nervous system are at risk at all times.
All drinks with alcohol can be harmful to the developing baby. Alcohol is in beer, wine, hard liquor, coolers, ciders and alcopops. Drinking regularly or more than two drinks per day is most harmful. A single drink means a can of beer (350 ml/12 oz), a glass of wine (150/ml/5 oz), or a shot of hard liquor (40 ml/1.5 oz).
No. FASD can only be caused by exposure to alcohol during pregnancy. Alcohol may affect your baby's sleep or decrease the amount of milk your baby takes at feeding time, so it is best not to drink alcohol while breastfeeding. If you are going to have a drink that contains alcohol, it is recommended that you feed your baby first. Breastfeeding is not recommended if you drink large amounts of alcohol.
We do not know exactly how many people have FASD and disabilities in Canada. Health Canada estimates the rate of FASD as 9 per 1000 live births. FASD may occur in any family or community, regardless of social, economic or ethnic status.
Fetal Alcohol Syndrome and related conditions are typically diagnosed after behavioural or learning problems are seen. Differences in physical appearance are not noted in most children diagnosed with FASD. Children who are diagnosed before six years of age tend to do best, as tailored support services can be provided with early diagnosis.
The characteristics of those affected by FASD can vary greatly. A team of specialists is required to assess, diagnose, and treat someone with FASD.
There are three diagnostic categories – Fetal Alcohol Syndrome (FAS), partial FAS (pFAS), and Alcohol Related Neurodevelopmental Disorder (ARND).
FASD is a lifelong condition that cannot be “cured.” An individual with FASD will process information differently, have difficulty understanding abstract concepts and consequences, and may have delayed social maturity. By understanding the person’s strengths, FASD and how the brain functions, it is possible to structure the environment to accommodate the individual.
Recognizing the problem early, even if the alcohol effects are mild, gives a child the best opportunity to reach his or her full potential in life. Early diagnosis and receiving support in a safe and healthy family situation may help prevent school difficulties, legal problems, mental health concerns such as depression or anxiety, and alcohol or other addictions.
Community resources, such as child development programs and key workers, may help families better understand how to support their child.
Two services are now available across BC to assist families of children and youth with FASD and similar conditions.
Some communities have additional support groups solely for birth mothers of children with FASD because birth mothers and their children may have health and social support needs.
For information on prevention of FASD, see the BC HealthFile #38d Pregnancy and Alcohol Use.
For more information, please see the Ministry of Children and Family Development
website at: www.mcf.gov.bc.ca/fasd/support.htm
or
www.mcf.gov.bc.ca/fasd/assessment.htm
The FASD Connections website at www.fasdconnections.ca provides more information on all aspects of FASD for parents, caregivers, professionals and others interested in FASD issues.
For information on services in your region, please contact your public health unit or health authority.
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