September is Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) Awareness Month and local healthcare providers are working with Telford & Wrekin Council to support impacted residents and raise awareness of the impact FASD can have on an individual and their family.

What is FASD?

FASD is a lifelong neurodevelopmental condition, that causes a range of cognitive, emotional and behavioural difficulties. Each person with FASD is affected differently. Once a person is diagnosed with FASD, appropriate care can be put in place to help support the person with FASD and their family.

Recognizing the Signs

Children with FASD may display a variety of symptoms that can cause issues with:

• movement, balance, vision and hearing
• learning, concentration and memory
• developing social skills and managing emotions
• hyperactivity and impulsiveness
• communication and speech
• physical problems with the heart, kidneys, bones, joints and muscles.

Prevention and Support

There is no proven safe amount of alcohol intake in pregnancy. Even low amounts of alcohol can affect your baby, so the safest approach is that you do not drink at all during pregnancy. Not every baby exposed to alcohol during pregnancy will develop FASD, but no one can predict which babies will develop the condition. The more a pregnant person drinks, the greater the risk to the child. No alcohol means no risk!

While there is no cure for FASD, early intervention and support can significantly improve the quality of life for individuals affected. Reach out to your midwife or healthcare provider for support for you and for your baby.

Resources and Further Information

We’re here to help, not judge. If you or someone you know may be impacted by FASD, more information, support and resources can be found on the Telford & Wrekin Council website.