Sieda Behavioral Health and Treatment reminds you that January is Birth Defects Prevention. One of the most preventable health issues is Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD). Drinking alcohol at any time during pregnancy can harm a baby. Alcohol goes directly from the mother’s bloodstream through the placenta to the baby. When a woman takes a drink of alcohol, so does her baby. Remember there are no known safe types or amounts of alcohol during pregnancy, not even a beer or a glass of wine.

So why take the risk? Alcohol can cause problems for a developing baby and their growing brain. Babies with FASDs are more likely than other babies to have intellectual and developmental disabilities. The four different types of FASD can cause different disabilities including:

  • Distinct facial features
  • Growth problems during pregnancy or after birth
  • Vision or hearing problems
  • Problems in school and with social interactions
  • Hyperactive behavior
  • Poor judgment
  • Speech problems
  • Problems with memory and learning
  • Congenital heart defects

In other words, FASDs are completely preventable. To prevent Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder, do not drink any alcohol during pregnancy. If you are planning a pregnancy, abstinence from alcohol is also recommended.

For some, it is not as easy to stop and Sieda Behavioral Health and Treatment is here to help; call 641-683-6747 or follow our link for more information: https://www.sieda.org/behavioral-health-and-treatment-services/