Foetal Alcohol Syndrome


Foetal Alcohol Syndrome
Foetal Alcohol Syndrome (FAS), Foetal Alcohol Effects (FAE), Alcohol Related Neurodevelopmental Disorders (ARND) and Alcohol Related Birth Defects (ARBD) are all names for a spectrum of disorders that potentially result from pregnant women consuming alcohol.

To date, researchers have not been able to determine a safe level for alcohol consumption for pregnant women. However they have identified that damage to the foetus varies due to the volume of alcohol ingested, timing during pregnancy, peak blood alcohol levels, genetic factors and environmental factors.

The reason alcohol can damage the foetus throughout the pregnancy is because it crosses the placenta freely and produces equivalent concentrations in foetal circulation to that in the mother. Studies have concluded that the developing brain can be injured even at low alcohol exposure levels.

Alcohol is a teratogen (an environmental agent that causes malformation of the embryo and the developing foetus). The effects of teratogen's can cause functional deficits in individuals. The brain and the central nervous system of the unborn child are particularly sensitive to prenatal alcohol exposure and this can lead to long-term developmental disabilities.

To avoid damage to unborn babies, it is strongly advised that expectant mothers consume NO alcohol if they are trying to conceive, during pregnancy and while breastfeeding.

For further information or support contact the National Organisation for Foetal Alcohol Syndrome and Related Disorders on(08) 8278 8797.


- Annemarie Failla

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