Useful Information About Fetal Alcohol Syndrome

Fetal Alcohol Syndrome is one of the few known preventable causes of mental retardation. Physical features of someone with FAS may include any or all of the following: small eyes, a short upturned nose, small head circumference, a thin upper lip, a cleft palate, light sensitivity, hypoplastic kidneys, a short neck, and deformed joints or limbs. It's likely that prenatal exposure to alcohol will have side effects, like slow physical growth/development before and after birth, vision or hearing difficulties, hyperactivity, poor impulse control, extreme nervousness, learning disabilities and a short attention span.

The bad news about Fetal Alcohol Syndrome is that there is no cure. For babies with alcohol related heart defects, surgery may be required. For children with behavioral issues, therapy and specialized schooling may help one cope. Most treatment methods are aimed at educating mothers on the risks that alcohol poses to their babies. Drinking is discouraged for all young women who have engaged in unprotected sex until a pregnancy test is taken, which can take as much as two weeks to come back accurately.

Support groups are available for parents of children with Fetal Alcohol Syndrome through NOFAS.org. There are a few tips to help you and your child cope. For example, establishing a regular, daily routine that the child can learn from and follow is helpful. The creation and enforcement of simple rules and regulations around the house can help keep behavioral issues at a minimum. Using rewards for good behavior has proved to be an effective tactic. Guard your child from those who may prey on their naivety and take the time and effort to teach your child basic life skills that they may not grasp as easily as others. Nothing is more important than a stable, nurturing environment in the healthy development of your child.