FASD Facts

What Are FASDs

Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASDs) refer to the whole range of effects that can happen to a person exposed to alcohol in utero. These conditions can affect each person in different ways and can range from mild to severe. FASDs may include physical, mental, behavioral, and/or learning disabilities with lifelong implications.

Any Amount, Any Type, Any Time

FASDs can occur with any amount of drinking, with any type or amount of alcohol at any time during pregnancy even prior to a woman realizing she is pregnant.  According to the CDC, there is no safe amount, type or time during pregnancy that alcohol use is safe. 

Face Facts

While there are facial features commonly associated with FASDs, it’s important to note that those facial features only appear when mothers drink during a very small time-frame in pregnancy.  FASDs can be present with or without the “face of FASD”.

No shame

Early diagnosis and intervention is key for people with FASDs.  It is crucial that your child’s physician is aware of any prenatal exposure to alcohol that may have occurred.  Diagnosis and support can only happen if they are aware that FASD may be a factor.

More common than you think

FASDs are the number one preventable birth defect world-wide.  Current estimates show that FASD impacts 3-5% of the population with percentages as high as 15% among vulnerable populations.

What can FASDs look like?

FASDs can look like many things as the way alcohol impacts each person is very different. The list below is just a few ways prenatal alcohol exposure can be seen later in life. These things can be caused by many different factors, not just alcohol, so be sure to check with your physician for diagnosis.

• Small head size

• Shorter-than-average height

• Low body weight

• Poor coordination

• Hyperactive behavior

• Difficulty with attention

• Poor memory

• Difficulty in school (especially with math)

• Learning disabilities

• Speech and language delays

• Intellectual disability or low IQ

• Poor reasoning and judgment skills

• Sleep and sucking problems as a baby

• Vision or hearing problems

• Problems with the heart, kidneys, or bones

• Abnormal facial features, such as a smooth ridge between the nose and upper lip (this ridge is called the philtrum)

I suspect FASD. Now what?

Early diagnosis can help put in place life long supports for individuals with FASDs. With your physician’s recommendation, connect with a diagnostic clinic in Washington State.