Drinking alcohol during pregnancy can have severe and lifelong consequences for the baby. It is associated with a range of adverse outcomes, including an increased risk of miscarriage, preterm birth, stillbirth, and sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). Alcohol exposure in utero can also cause fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASDs).
Risks of Alcohol Consumption During Pregnancy
Here's a breakdown of the potential harm:
- Miscarriage: Increased risk of pregnancy loss.
- Preterm Birth: Delivery of the baby before 37 weeks of gestation.
- Stillbirth: Death of the baby in the womb after 20 weeks of gestation.
- Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS): The unexplained death of a seemingly healthy baby, usually during sleep.
- Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASDs): A range of lifelong physical, behavioral, and intellectual disabilities.
Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASDs)
FASDs are a group of conditions that can occur in a person whose mother drank alcohol during pregnancy. These disorders can cause a variety of problems.
Types of problems associated with FASDs:
- Physical Defects: Heart defects, kidney problems, or vision/hearing impairments.
- Behavioral Problems: Hyperactivity, difficulty with attention, or trouble with social skills.
- Intellectual Disabilities: Learning disabilities, low IQ, or difficulty with problem-solving.
- Growth Problems: Slower than normal growth, small head size.
Therefore, it's vital for pregnant women to abstain from alcohol to ensure the health and well-being of their baby.
