Legal Definitions - fetal alcohol syndrome

Fetal Alcohol Syndrome

Fetal Alcohol Syndrome (FAS) is a condition that occurs in babies whose mothers drank alcohol during pregnancy. It can cause a range of physical and mental birth defects, including facial abnormalities, growth deficiencies, and intellectual disabilities.

• A baby born with a small head and brain damage because their mother drank alcohol during pregnancy.
• A child with facial abnormalities, such as a thin upper lip and small eye openings, due to their mother's alcohol consumption during pregnancy.
• A child who struggles with learning and has difficulty with memory and attention because their mother drank alcohol while pregnant.

These examples illustrate how Fetal Alcohol Syndrome can cause a range of physical and mental birth defects that can affect a child's development and quality of life. It is important for pregnant women to avoid alcohol to prevent FAS and give their baby the best chance for a healthy start in life.