What it is
There is no known safe amount of alcohol in pregnancy, so the safest choice is not to drink at all.
There is no cure, but early diagnosis and support at home, at school and from health services can make a big difference.
Common signs
- Learning difficulties and problems with memory and attention
- Hyperactivity and difficulty with behaviour
- Poor coordination
- Being smaller than expected
- Distinctive facial features in some children
How it is usually diagnosed
- Assessment by a specialist team
- Information about alcohol use during pregnancy
- Developmental and psychological assessments
Records worth keeping
Keeping these together makes each appointment easier, especially when you see a new doctor:
- Developmental and psychological assessment reports
- School support plans
- Growth charts
- Specialist letters
Questions to ask your doctor
- What support is available for my child?
- Which specialists should be involved?
- How can school help?
When to get help right away
Call 112 or go to the nearest emergency department if you have:
- Seizures, fainting or very severe behaviour changes that put the child at risk: get urgent medical help
This page is general information. It is not a diagnosis and does not replace a doctor who knows your history. Medfold keeps your records organised; it does not interpret them.