This is also the time of greatest brain development. Research with animals indicates the brain and central nervous system are at great risk during the third trimester. Full-blown FAS occurs in an estimated one out of every 750 live births. Among known alcoholic-abusing women, however, FAS occurs in 30 percent of recorded live births. A recent study of 61 adolescents and adults with FAS and FAE revealed IQ scores ranging from 20 to 105, with an overage of 68.
Birth defects related to alcohol use are permanent.
Surgery can repair some of the physical problems, and schools and day care centers offer programs to improve mental and physical development. However, children born with FAS remain below average in physical and mental development throughout their lives. Recent studies have shown that pregnant women will reduce or cease their alcohol intake if they are made aware of the harmful effects of alcohol on their babies. However, the most critical period for the fetus is the first trimester when the mother may not even suspect she is pregnant. For such women, an early warning system is imperative.