What is fetal alcohol spectrum disorder?
Fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD) refers to a range of preventable birth defects and disorders caused when a developing baby is exposed to alcohol before they are born.
If you're worried about the behaviour and learning of a child who was exposed to alcohol during pregnancy, talk to a health professional.
Don't drink while pregnant
There is no safe time to drink alcohol in pregnancy. There is no safe amount to drink in pregnancy.
Drinking can damage your baby
Drinking alcohol when pregnant can change a baby's physical appearance and damage the brain. There can also be brain damage without any obvious physical changes - this brain damage shows up as learning and behaviour problems that can cause lifelong difficulties. FASD is a lifelong disability.
Where to get help to stop drinking
If you're pregnant or planning to be pregnant and finding it difficult to stop drinking, talk to a health professional, lead maternity carer, or call the Alcohol Drug Helpline 0800 787 797.
FASD in New Zealand
Based on overseas studies and our drinking patterns, Aotearoa New Zealand can expect up to 3,000 pēpi (babies) a year to be born with FASD.
Making informed choices
Barriers to women being able to make well-informed choices around alcohol use during pregnancy include:
- incorrect information
- fear of causing stress
- social pressure to drink
What to do if you're worried about a child
If you're worried about the behaviour and learning of a child who was exposed to alcohol during pregnancy, talk to a health professional.
Information and support to help with stopping drinking
The Amohia te Waiora website has information about alcohol and pregnancy, advice about being alcohol-free, and links to support.
FASD-CAN provides information and support for people with FASD and their families and whānau. The website has information about FASD assessment and diagnosis, support groups and resources for parents and caregivers.
Alcohol Healthwatch has information and resources about FASD and preventing harm from alcohol during pregnancy.
The Alcohol Drug Helpline provides free, confidential information and support if you are concerned about your drinking or someone else’s.
Call 0800 787 797 or free text 8681, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Local healthcare professionals
Seek the help of a health professional or lead maternity carer if you are pregnant or planning to be pregnant and need some support to stop drinking.
Acknowledgements
The content on this page has been produced in collaboration with the Fetal Alcohol Network NZ.
