What is FASD?

Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) is a lifelong disorder.  Alcohol can cross the placenta during pregnancy, and interfere with normal development of the baby.

FASD is an umbrella term for a spectrum of conditions; some children may only develop mild symptoms while others may be severely affected.

Fetal Alcohol Syndrome (FAS) is the most severe condition in the spectrum, and the only form that can be recognised visibly.

A person with FASD is more prone to illness, physical and mental health problems, and learning and behavioural disorders.  Because of their problems, they may become expelled from school, develop problematic use of drugs and alcohol, develop mental health problems, and find it difficult to get a job and live independently as adults.

FASD is Scotland’s most common, but often invisible, brain-damaging birth defect. There are an estimated 375 children and young people with FASD in the Highlands.

Support for children and young people with FASD:

• Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) A booklet for parents, carers and families of children and young people exposed to alcohol during pregnancy
• FASD Hub Scotland and their various factsheet resources.
• The Pines Highland Neurodevelopmental Service – FASD
• National FASD
• NHS Ayrshire & Arran have a number of helpful resources, including a webpage, Alcohol and pregnancy – No Alcohol, no risk booklet, and Understanding Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) Summary Guide
• Me & My FASD