Fetal Alcohol Syndrome (FAS): Risks of Drinking During Pregnancy

Yes, your baby is still at risk for fetal alcohol syndrome (FAS) even if you stopped drinking alcohol when you found out you were pregnant.

Alcohol can cross the placenta and reach your baby, affecting their development. Drinking alcohol during pregnancy can cause a range of problems, including:

* Fetal alcohol syndrome (FAS): This is the most severe form of alcohol-related birth defects and can cause a range of physical, mental, and behavioral problems.

* Alcohol-related neurodevelopmental disorder (ARND): This is a less severe form of alcohol-related birth defects and can cause a range of problems, including learning disabilities, attention problems, and behavioral problems.

* Other problems: Alcohol can also increase the risk of miscarriage, premature birth, and low birth weight.

The effects of alcohol on your baby depend on a number of factors, including the amount of alcohol you drink, how often you drink, and when you drink during your pregnancy. There is no safe amount of alcohol to drink during pregnancy, so it is best to avoid alcohol completely if you are pregnant or thinking about becoming pregnant.