A–Z Glossary

Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders

Fetal alcohol spectrum disorders are lifelong conditions caused by prenatal alcohol exposure that can affect growth, brain development, learning, behavior, and physical features.

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Alcohol and drug use risks during pregnancy

Alcohol and drug use risks during pregnancy

Why substances matter biologically in pregnancy The placenta is not a perfect filter. Alcohol, nicotine, cannabinoids, opioids, stimulants, and many sedatives can cross into the fetal circulation. Fetal metabolism is immature, so substances and their metabolites may persist longer than they would in an adult. At the same time, the embryo and fetus are undergoing […]