What is FASD?
The spectrum of disorders related to alcohol use in pregnancy are referred to as Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD). FASD includes a range of physical, mental and behavioural effects and learning disabilities, including difficulties with language, poor impulse control, and attention or judgment problems. Unlike the effects of many other drugs, the effects of in utero alcohol exposure are lifelong.
Children with FASD may have:
- Low birth weight and slowed growth
- Central nervous system abnormalities, including small head size, intellectual disability, poor fine motor skills, or poor eye-hand coordination
- Behaviour and thinking (cognitive) problems, which may include poor attention, concentration, memory, and comprehension skills, difficulty with math skills, hyperactivity, and extreme mood changes
- Distinctive facial features, which include a small head, flat face, narrow eye openings (slits), a short upturned nose, a flattened groove between the nose and the upper lip (philtrum), and a thin upper lip
- A child with FASD may also have birth defects that involve the eyes, ears, heart, urinary tract, or bones
FASD is preventable
- Do not drink alcohol when planning to become pregnant, during pregnancy, or when breastfeeding
- Ask your friends and family for their support
- Enjoy mocktails! These non-alcoholic drinks are festive ways to celebrate without alcohol.
Mocktails
- Mocktails are fun and always refreshing. Non-alcoholic drinks are a great way to enjoy the party without alcohol. Click here for some great mocktail recipes! (external link opens in new tab)
Learn more about FASD
- Alberta Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) Cross-Ministry Committee(external link opens in new tab)
- Or call 1-877-FAS-INFO (1-877-327-4636)
- CanFASD(external link opens in new tab) (Canada FASD Research Network)