Written By: Debjani Arora | Published : November 6, 2014 7:39 PM IST
Alcohol consumption during pregnancy has always gathered a lot of interest from experts and common people alike. The reason being, alcohol consumption during pregnancy is a very controversial topic of discussion. There isn t much evidence that a few drinks during the initial days of pregnancy (or even during the later stages) can harm the developing fetus, however many studies suggest that continuous drinking during pregnancy can give rise to a wide range of problems in the fetus. A condition known as fetal alcohol syndrome is associated with mother s drinking habit during pregnancy. Here is why alcohol consumption during pregnancy is not a good idea.
How fetal alcohol syndrome affects a baby?
Alcohol consumption during pregnancy, even occasionally, can be fatal for the growing baby. This is because alcohol when consumed by the expectant mother passes through the placenta and reaches the baby. Unlike the adult liver which is developed and can eliminate toxins from the system effectively, the organs of the fetus are still in its formative phase and isn't as effective in dealing with such toxins. Hence, this can adversely affect the growth and development process of the baby leading to fetal alcohol syndrome. For the mother, alcohol consumption during pregnancy increases the risk of premature birth, stillbirth and miscarriage, whereas fetal exposure to alcohol could lead to:
Can fetal alcohol syndrome be treated in early childhood?
The symptoms and features of the syndrome cannot be cured or rectified after birth. But if the syndrome is picked up early, a combination of treatments and therapy by psychologists, psychiatrists, speech and language therapists and specialists for organ defects can help manage the syndrome effectively after the child is born. In some cases, the features of the baby affected by the syndrome will remain unaltered even after treatment and the child might have to bear the consequences lifelong. Here is what you need to know about fetal distress and what it actually means?
How can fetal alcohol syndrome be prevented?
The only way to prevent fetal alcohol syndrome is to refrain from alcohol intake during pregnancy. While many might say that an occasional drink or two might do no harm, but why take the risk. In case, you have consumed alcohol before discovering that you are pregnant don t fret over it now, instead pay attention to corrective lifestyle habits and eat right. In fact, it is best to avoid alcohol during the conception phase to avoid any complications.
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