Alcohol: An unfortunate teratogen
Fetal alcohol syndrome is entirely preventable. We need to remind ourselves and our patients of this fact.
IN THIS ARTICLE
As obstetricians, we are powerless to prevent many conditions—such as vasa previa, acute fatty liver of pregnancy, and amniotic band syndrome. FAS is 100% preventable.
There aren’t that many proven teratogens in our profession, and there are none that involve behavior that is more socially acceptable than alcohol consumption. It is time for our profession to encourage women to appreciate how small a percentage of one’s life is spent pregnant, how many more years there are to enjoy an occasional cocktail, and how very high the stakes are during this important period of their lives. Oh, how I wish someone had been able to communicate all of this to sweet Charlie’s biologic mother. I am so grateful he’s getting the exceptional care he’s getting and very optimistic regarding his future. I only hope others in his situation are given the same opportunities.
Prenatal counseling
Louise Wilkins-Haug, MD, PhD (January 2008)
Prevention of fetal alcohol syndrome requires routine screening of all women of reproductive age
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