Drinking alcohol during pregnancy can lead to severe consequences, including mental and physical disabilities in the child.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) warns that alcohol during pregnancy could cause fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASDs), which is a broad term that includes a range of physical, behavioral, and cognitive disabilities.

The impact of alcohol on the developing fetus can be devastating. Hence, it is crucial for pregnant women to stay away from alcohol to curb any potential complications.

However, if you had consumed alcohol before realizing you were pregnant, you should discuss it with your doctor. They will run tests and make recommendations accordingly.

Effects of Alcohol during Pregnancy

The more alcohol a pregnant woman drinks, the greater the risk of FASDs to her child. Binge drinking or consuming alcohol regularly may cause severe consequences. Here are some of the effects alcohol can have during pregnancy:.

Physical disabilities

FASDs are known to cause physical disabilities in fetuses, including hearing and vision issues, heart defects, and bone deformities.

Babies with FASDs tend to be smaller in size at birth and have a lower birth weight than babies who were not exposed to alcohol during pregnancy.

Behavioral and cognitive issues

Children born with FASDs tend to have cognitive difficulties, which may lead to trouble with problem-solving, memory, and attention. They might also face challenges when it comes to social communication and following instructions.

Such disruptions can severely affect their ability to integrate well into society and lead a fulfilling life.

Mental health issues

Babies exposed to alcohol while in the womb are more likely to develop mental health conditions like anxiety, depression, and bipolar disorder in their adolescence and adulthood.

What is a Safe Level of Alcohol during Pregnancy?

The CDC advises pregnant women to stay away from alcohol completely.

There is no so-called ‘safe’ or permissible level of alcohol use during pregnancy since even a little amount of alcohol can cross the placenta and enter the baby’s bloodstream, affecting their development.

Alcohol Withdrawal Syndrome in Newborns

Babies born to women who drank heavily during pregnancy or those women who abuse drugs are at a higher risk for developing alcohol withdrawal syndrome (AWS). AWS is a collection of symptoms caused by withdrawal from alcohol after birth.

Symptoms of AWS may appear immediately after birth or within the first few days of life, and the severity can range from mild to life-threatening.

The most common symptoms are:.

Seizure or tremors
Increased irritability
Sleeping difficulties
Poor feeding
Vomiting

It is crucial to identify and treat AWS soon to avoid any long-term damage to the newborn.

Conclusion

Different studies on pregnant women who consumed alcohol have all produced the same outcome- that alcohol during pregnancy can cause severe and life long implications for the baby.

While some women may have consumed alcohol unknowingly, it is important for pregnant women to stay away from alcohol completely to prevent any potential complications.