Fetal alcohol spectrum disorder
Overview
If you drink alcohol during pregnancy you risk causing harm to your baby. Sometimes this can result in mental and physical problems in the baby, called fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD).
Treatment
There is no particular treatment for FASD, and the damage to a child's brain and body cannot be reversed. But an early diagnosis and support can make a big difference. Once the condition has been diagnosed, a team of healthcare professionals can assess your child's needs and offer appropriate educational and behavioural strategies. You may also find it helpful to contact a support group for people with FASD. These can be a good source of advice and they may be able to connect you with other people in a similar situation. Find support from: FASD Network UKNational Organisation for FASD You might also want to ask your care team if they know of any local groups in your area.
Prevention
FASD is completely avoidable if you do not drink alcohol while you're pregnant. The risk of FASD is higher the more you drink. There's no proven "safe" level of alcohol in pregnancy. Not drinking at all is the safest approach. If you're pregnant and struggling with an alcohol problem, talk to a midwife or doctor. Confidential help and support is also available from: Drinkawarehas a national alcohol helpline called Drinkline; if you're worried about your own or someone else's drinking, call the free helpline on 0300 123 1110 (weekdays 9am to 8pm, weekends 11am to 4pm)We Are With You– a charity providing free, confidential support for drugs, alcohol and mental health problems, and a directory of drug and alcohol services around the UKAlcoholics Anonymous (AA)– a free self-help group; its "12-step" programme involves getting sober with the help of regular support groupsNational Organisation for FASD has a helpline– 020 8458 5951 (you leave a message and someone returns your call) You can alsofind your nearest alcohol support servicesor read advice oncutting down your drinkingandalcohol in pregnancy.