September is Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders Awareness Month

September is Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD) Awareness Month, an opportunity to share there is no known safe amount, no safe time, and no safe type of alcohol during pregnancy.

An estimated one in nine pregnant women reported drinking alcohol in the past month, according to recent research published by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). As a teratogen, alcohol can cause a range of effects in a fetus that is exposed in utero, including physical problems, problems with behavior and learning, or a combination of these. There is no cure for FASDs and the effects last a lifetime. Learn more and discuss common questions about FASDs with patients using our FAQs for providers.

It’s important for obstetrician-gynecologists to educate patients regarding fetal alcohol spectrum disorders and the risk of fetal alcohol exposure. Check out ACOG’s provider pocket card for a quick guide to alcohol screening and brief intervention, including a validated tool, sample language, and visuals to use with patients.

Visit acog.org/alcohol to learn more about the clinician’s role in screening and brief intervention for risky alcohol use and to access free online trainings and resources, including our free e-module, Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders: Ethical and Legal Perspectives (CME and MOC part IV available).