Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder: Prevention

What is fetal alcohol spectrum disorder?

Fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD) refers to a range of preventable birth defects and disorders caused when a developing baby is exposed to alcohol before they are born.

Don't drink while pregnant

There is no safe time to drink alcohol in pregnancy. There is no safe amount to drink in pregnancy.

Drinking can damage your baby

Drinking alcohol when pregnant can change a baby's physical appearance and damage the brain. There can also be brain damage without any obvious physical changes - this brain damage shows up as learning and behaviour problems that can cause lifelong difficulties. FASD is a lifelong disability.

Where to get help to stop drinking

If you're pregnant or planning to be pregnant and finding it difficult to stop drinking, talk to your family doctor, lead maternity carer, or call the Alcohol Drug Helpline 0800 787 797.

FASD in New Zealand

Based on overseas studies and our drinking patterns, Aotearoa, New Zealand can expect up to 3,000 babies a year to be born with FASD.

Making informed choices

Barriers to women being able to make well-informed choices around alcohol use during pregnancy include:

• incorrect information
• fear of causing stress
• social pressure to drink

What to do if you're worried about a child

If you're worried about the behaviour and learning of a child who was exposed to alcohol during pregnancy, ask your family doctor for a referral to your nearest Child Health Service.

Where can I go for more information and support to help me stop drinking?

Health Promotion Agency

The Health Promotion Agency's alcohol website has advice about not drinking alcohol when hapūtanga (pregnant). It also has resources for health professionals, research, campaign information, and links to further information and support.

FASD Care Action Network NZ

FASD-CAN is a New Zealand based, non-profit incorporated society made up of parents, caregivers, extended whānau and professionals. It aims to improve the lives of those living with fetal alcohol spectrum disorder.

The Fetal Alcohol Network New Zealand (FANNZ)

The Fetal Alcohol Network New Zealand (FANNZ) has further information on fetal alcohol spectrum disorder. It also has contact details should you wish to talk to someone about any concerns.

Alcohol & Drug Helpline 

If you are pregnant or planning to be pregnant and having trouble stopping drinking, call the Alcohol Drug Helpline on 0800 787 797. See the website for more information on how they can help and what it involves. 

Local healthcare professionals

Seek the help of your family doctor or lead maternity carer if you are pregnant or planning to be pregnant and need some support to stop drinking.