Potential Damage
Alcohol has the potential of damaging any part of the developing fetus. However, neuro tissue is most likely to be affected. Alcohol use during pregnancy is a leading preventable cause of intellectual disabilities!
When a person consumes alcohol it enters their bloodstream.
In a pregnant woman the alcohol passes through the placenta and umbilical cord and enters the bloodstream of the fetus. The alcohol acts as a toxin on tender developing fetal tissue. It can cause permanent damage.
All body parts are susceptible to damage. However the neuro or brain tissue is most likely to be affected. See FASD: What Everyone Should Know from NOFAS.
When prenatal alcohol exposure causes a combination of effects to the body and neurological system, the person may have Fetal Alcohol Syndrome (FAS).
Depending on the timing of the alcohol exposure and amount used, damage may not be apparent on the outside. However, the neurological damage may still be present. This damage could lead to a variety of problems ranging from cognitive or learning issues, behavioral problems, attention deficits and social issues. Damage may not always be apparent at birth! For more information, please visit:
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The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention alcohol and pregnancy
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The FASD Centers for Excellence Effects of Acohol on a Fetus
