Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders - NYC Health

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Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders

Fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASDs) are a group of conditions that can occur in a person whose mother drank alcohol during pregnancy. These effects can include physical problems and problems with behavior and learning. Often, a person with an FASD has a mix of these problems.

Cause and Prevention

FASDs are caused by a person drinking alcohol during pregnancy. There is no known amount of alcohol that is safe to drink while pregnant. There is also no safe time to drink during pregnancy and no safe kind of alcohol to drink while pregnant.

To prevent FASDs, a person should not drink alcohol while pregnant. Because a woman could get pregnant and not know for several weeks, she should not drink when she might get pregnant. In the United States, half of pregnancies are unplanned, increasing the risk of FASDs.

Additional Resources

Alcohol and Breastfeeding

Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASDs)

Fetal Alcohol Exposure

Fetal alcohol disorders are more common than you think

Why do pregnant women get confusing guidance about alcohol?

Substance Abuse Treatment Facility Locator

For 24 hour / seven days per week information and referral, call or visit 988

More Information

Early Intervention Services

Alcohol and Drugs: Prevent Misuse

Pregnancy and Baby Care