Which statement about fetal alcohol syndrome and pregnancy is true?

Which statement about fetal alcohol syndrome and pregnancy is true?

• A. Fetal alcohol syndrome can occur with alcohol use during pregnancy
• B. It occurs only after birth
• C. It is unrelated to CNS abnormalities
• D. It is always fully reversible

Answer: (A)

Prenatal exposure to alcohol can cause fetal alcohol spectrum disorders, with fetal alcohol syndrome being the most severe form. Alcohol crosses the placenta and the fetus cannot metabolize it well, leading to growth problems, distinctive facial features, and neurodevelopmental and CNS abnormalities. Because the damage happens during pregnancy, this condition is not something that only occurs after birth, and its effects on the brain and growth can be lasting rather than completely reversible. The statement that fetal alcohol syndrome can occur with alcohol use during pregnancy is the correct one, reflecting that prenatal exposure is the cause. It is not accurate to say it occurs only after birth, is unrelated to CNS abnormalities, or is fully reversible.

Prenatal exposure to alcohol can cause fetal alcohol spectrum disorders, with fetal alcohol syndrome being the most severe form. Alcohol crosses the placenta and the fetus cannot metabolize it well, leading to growth problems, distinctive facial features, and neurodevelopmental and CNS abnormalities. Because the damage happens during pregnancy, this condition is not something that only occurs after birth, and its effects on the brain and growth can be lasting rather than completely reversible. The statement that fetal alcohol syndrome can occur with alcohol use during pregnancy is the correct one, reflecting that prenatal exposure is the cause. It is not accurate to say it occurs only after birth, is unrelated to CNS abnormalities, or is fully reversible.