International Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder Awareness Day
FASD is thought to affect at least 3 million of the South African population
Carrying your own baby inside your womb is one of the most unbelievable moments a woman can do.
But many people don’t release the harm they do to their unborn child by consuming alcohol during their pregnancy.
If you think about it it’s nine months of your life that you really have to watch what you consume.
Every year on September 9 it is International Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) Awareness Day.
It is a day observed in countries in and around the world.
So what is Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD)?
FASD is a condition that arises when a mother consumes alcohol during her pregnancy.
The use of alcohol during a mother’s pregnancy is a leading cause worldwide of preventable birth defects and development disabilities in children.
In South Africa, these are the facts: FASD is thought to affect at least 3 million of the South African population, yet FASD is 100% preventable by just giving up alcohol for nine months.
So how does FASD occur within a pregnant woman’s body?
Alcohol easily passes through the placenta which is the organ of the body that sustains a baby during pregnancy.
The developing cells of the fetus (unborn baby) can be damaged due to the harmful effects of alcohol, leading to severe defects which are not curable.
Since the brain starts developing soon after conception, the brain is especially vulnerable, leading to permanent brain damage.
As most pregnancies in South Africa are unplanned, women often continue to use alcohol without realizing that they are pregnant.
If you have a drinking problem and you are pregnant seek help so that you don’t do further damage to your fetus.
In eMalahleni contact SANCA Witbank Alcohol and Drug Help Centre pon 013 656 2370 and they will help you.
