Treatment For Fetal Alcohol Syndrome

A woman who drinks alcohol, either regularly or sporadically, during pregnancy is imposing a very dangerous risk to her unborn child. It is a known fact that children that are born to mothers who drink alcohol may suffer from various health problems, one of which is known as fetal alcohol syndrome.


The treatment for fetal alcohol syndrome is best started when a woman first decides to get pregnant and is done by avoiding the consumption of any alcohol. If a woman learns that she is unexpectedly pregnant, she should stop drinking alcohol immediately in order to avoid any chance of fetal alcohol syndrome.
It is very important to seek proper treatment for fetal alcohol syndrome because the illness can be very serious to a child. Among the risks are a child that is small and/or underweight, the potential for birth defects, including delayed development and behavioral problems later in life. The most serious result of fetal alcohol syndrome is mental retardation.

If a woman learns that she is pregnant, but cannot stop drinking due to an addiction, a physician can provide help. By eliminating alcohol, the physician will be helping to provide an effective treatment for fetal alcohol syndrome or may help to prevent it altogether. Treatment methods will vary depending on the level of dependency and may include support groups, inpatient or outpatient rehabilitation centers, regular meetings, possible screenings, etc.

It is important to realize that there is no cure, but treatment for fetal alcohol syndrome is very possible. Children who are diagnosed with this illness can be helped by way of proper medical and dental care, eyeglasses if needed, possible hearing aids and special learning programs in school.

There is no safe amount of alcohol consumption while pregnant. Realistically, the best treatment for fetal alcohol syndrome is a preventative method that will eliminate the likelihood of the illness altogether. While larger amounts of alcohol are certainly more dangerous to an unborn infant, even the smallest amount may result in fetal alcohol syndrome.

This article is to be used for informational purposes only. The information contained herein is not intended to be used in place of, or in conjunction with, professional medical advice or recommendations regarding the treatment for fetal alcohol syndrome. Before deciding on the most effective method of treatment, the patient must consult a licensed medical doctor for advice and/or to determine the best course of action for his/her individual situation.