Final answer:
It is true that drinking alcohol during pregnancy can cause Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD). FASD can lead to lifelong physical, cognitive, and behavioral impairments, and there is no safe amount of alcohol that can be consumed during pregnancy.
Step-by-step explanation:
Drinking alcohol during pregnancy can cause Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD). This statement is true. When a pregnant woman consumes alcohol, it can cross the placenta and affect the developing fetus, potentially leading to FASD, which includes a range of conditions such as fetal alcohol syndrome (FAS). Children with FASD may exhibit distinctive facial characteristics, developmental delays, cognitive deficits, and behavioral issues.
Fetal alcohol syndrome is the most severe form of FASD and presents with abnormal craniofacial appearances such as a flattened nasal bridge, thin upper lip, and small eye openings. Other symptoms might include short height, low body weight, and intellectual disabilities. FASDs are particularly harmful as they can lead to lifelong challenges for affected individuals.
FASDs are entirely preventable by avoiding alcohol during pregnancy. There is no known safe amount of alcohol consumption during pregnancy, making abstinence the best choice for the health of the embryo or fetus. Since each organ of the developing fetus has a specific sensitive period, exposure to alcohol at any point can result in teratogenic effects.