Foetal
Alcohol Syndrome

Foetal alcohol syndrome (FAS) is a pattern of mental and physical defects
which develops in some unborn babies when the mother drinks excessive
alcohol during pregnancy.

The taking of alcohol does not always result in FAS, but no amount of
alcohol whatsoever is proven safe for consumption during pregnancy. The
current recommendation of both the Surgeon General of the United States
and the British Department of Health is not to drink alcohol at all during
pregnancy.

Alcohol crosses the placental barrier and can stunt foetal growth or
weight, create distinctive facial stigmata, damage neurons and brain structures,
and cause other physical, mental, or behavioural problems. The main effect
of FAS is permanent central nervous system damage, especially to the brain.
Developing brain cells and structures are underdeveloped or malformed
by prenatal alcohol exposure, often creating an array of primary cognitive
and functional disabilities (including poor memory, attention deficits,
impulsive behavior, and poor cause-effect reasoning) as well as secondary
disabilities (for example, mental health problems, and drug addiction).

PREGNANT PAUSE!

9:09 on 9th September 2010

FREEZE FOR 9 MINUTES with a HUGE FLASH MOB in Victoria
Station, London.

While having fun, you will inform the world that women
who avoid alcohol for nine months in pregnancy prevent their children
from being born with alcohol related brain damage
known as Foetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD)

Watch last year’s event here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SCkpWKHHzts

Sites that may have advice and support on Foetal Alcohol Syndrome

National Organisation on Fetal Alcohol Syndrome -UK

Protecting children, supporting families, and educating the public about
the FASD, the leading known cause of physical and mental disabilities
www.nofas-uk.org

For further information or to register, contact NOFAS-UK Tel: 08700 333
700
Email: nofas-uk@midlantic.co.uk

Foetal Alcohol Syndrome Aware UK

This website has been designed to raise awareness, give informed choice,
provide information and support for people affected by / interested in
FAS. There is a vast range of resources available for you to download
including educational resources, marketing material and documentation
written by Professionals. THEY ARE A VOLUNTARY GROUP.
www.fasaware.co.uk

Where to next?

• How
  to manage other common pregnancy problems
• Get advice, swap notes and stories from parents in the same boat as
  you. Visit
  our discussion forums