What causes Fetal Alcohol Syndrome (FAS) and What causes Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD) are very common questions we receive. The only cause of Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders / FASD is alcohol use during pregnancy. There is no known safe amount of alcohol to consume during pregnancy. There is also no safe time to consume alcohol during pregnancy. Alcohol, including beer, wine, spirits, etc., can affect the baby during every trimester of pregnancy, as shown below.
Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders / FASD can occur during any part of the pregnancy when the mother consumed alcohol. Below are some specific details regarding drinking alcohol during each trimester.
Consuming alcohol up to the 13th week of pregnancy can cause:
- Severe Brain Damage
- Problems with the Heart, Liver and Kidneys
- Miscarriage
- Facial Malformations
Consuming alcohol between weeks 14 and 26 can cause:
- Brain Damage
- Miscarriage
- Damaged Muscles, Skin, Teeth, Glands and Bones
Consuming alcohol between weeks 27 and 40 can cause:
- Brain and Lung Damage
- Low Birth Weight
- Early Labor and Delivery
Are you an expectant mother and worried about your drinking? Find support.
