Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) is a lifelong disability that affects the brain and body of people who were exposed to alcohol before birth. People with FASD may need support in many areas of daily life, including:
- motor skills;
- physical health;
- learning and attention;
- communication;
- emotional regulation; and
- social skills.
Every person with FASD is different and has their own unique mix of strengths and challenges.
Fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD) happens when a baby is exposed to alcohol before birth. If a baby is not exposed to alcohol during pregnancy, they will not have FASD.
- Drinking any amount of alcohol while you're pregnant can be harmful.
- Drinking more than 2 drinks a day or drinking regularly cause the most harm to developing babies.
Any reduction in drinking helps
Every single step you take to stop drinking while you're pregnant is helpful. Quitting or reducing the amount of alcohol you drink at any stage of your pregnancy is a healthy move.
Find out about fetal alcohol spectrum disorder.
Where to get help
If you're concerned about how much alcohol you drink or how much a friend or family member drinks during pregnancy:
- phone Yukon Alcohol and Drug Services 1-855-667-5777; or
- talk to your health care provider.
You can also find out about adult counselling services in Yukon.
Help someone have an alcohol-free pregnancy
Our drinking habits are shaped by those around us. Here are some ways that partners, families and friends can help pregnant people not to drink.
- Offer non-alcoholic drinks at social gatherings, such as juice, soda water or tea. Try serving soda water and fruit juice in a fancy glass.
- Offer practical support, such as babysitting, making a meal or running an errand. Ask them what would help reduce stress in their life.
- Take a break yourself from during alcohol during the pregnancy. Or avoid drinking around them. Having someone go alcohol-free for part or all of the pregnancy can be helpful and encouraging.
- Choose a coffee shop or restaurant instead of a bar when you go out.
- Enjoy social activities that do not involve alcohol – watch a movie, go for a walk or go to a local performance.
- Often, drinking can be a way to cope with difficulties in life, such as depression or isolation. Assume they're are doing the best they can and let them know you’re willing to help when they're ready to make a change.
Ideas for the holidays
If you host a holiday gathering, have non-alcoholic drinks and plenty of food on hand.
Where to find other information
- Fetal Alcohol Syndrome Society of Yukon
- Child Development Centre
- Yukon Disability Services
- Yukon Mental Wellness and Substance Use Services
- Developmental Diagnostic Support Clinic (Adults)
- Canada Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder Research Network
FASD online training
Take CanFASD's training courses.