What is FASD?
Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) is the name used to talk about a whole set of physical, brain and behavioural differences in people exposed to alcohol in the womb. Alcohol is a substance that can injure a developing fetus. When born, the baby may have disabilities and grow into an adult with disabilities.
The disabilities caused by exposure to alcohol in the womb are permanent. That means that people do not grow out of FASD and FASD does not go away as you get older. For most people with FASD, the disability is hidden and no one can tell they have a disability just by looking. This is why FASD is sometimes called an invisible disability.
Even though each person is affected differently, there are some disabilities that are more common for people affected by alcohol before they were born. Keep reading to learn about some common physical, cognitive (learning), behavioural and sensory disabilities.
Do you Want to Talk with Someone about FASD?
Learning about FASD is complicated. If you have questions or want to talk with someone, call the FASD Support Network of Saskatchewan. We are here to help.