Fetal alcohol syndrome

Alternative names:

alcohol in pregnancy; at risk for fetal alcohol syndrome; drinking alcohol during pregnancy

Treatment:

Women trying to conceive and pregnant women are encouraged to avoid drinking alcohol in any quantity. Pregnant alcoholic women should be involved in alcohol abuse rehabilitation programs and monitored closely throughout pregnancy.

Support groups can benefit the woman by providing interaction with members who share common experiences and problems. For this condition, see alcoholism - support group.

For free information on how to stop drinking contact:

• The National Alcohol Abuse Hotline at 1-800-662-HELP
• The National Council on Alcoholism at 1-800-NCA-CALL

Sedatives may be given to the newborn to combat the effects of withdrawal.

Expectations (prognosis):

Outcome for infants with fetal alcohol syndrome is considered to be poor.

The problems of the infant and child with fetal alcohol syndrome are diverse and difficult to manage. Cardiac defects may necessitate surgery.
There is no effective therapy for the mental retardation.

Complications:

Alcohol consumption during pregnancy may result in:

• miscarriage or stillbirth
• premature delivery
• a mentally retarded baby
• a baby who is small for gestational age
• a baby who may die in infancy
• a baby with a small head and defects, or malformations of the eyes, nose, or mouth
• a baby with malformation of the heart or other vital organ
• a baby with slow growth and poor coordination
• a restless, overactive baby that may later exhibit hyperactive behavior and learning disabilities

Calling your health care provider:

Call for an appointment with your health care provider if you are drinking alcohol regularly or heavily and are finding it difficult to cut back or stop, or if you are drinking alcohol in any quantity while pregnant or contemplating becoming pregnant.