Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 exam•Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
Fetal Alcohol Syndrome (FAS) is a condition in a child resulting from alcohol exposure during the mother's pregnancy, causing brain damage and growth problems.
Related terms
Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome (NAS): This is a group of problems that occur in a newborn who was exposed to addictive opiate drugs while in the mother's womb.
The organ that connects the developing fetus to the uterine wall allowing nutrient uptake, waste elimination, and gas exchange via the mother's blood supply. Alcohol can cross this barrier causing harm to the fetus.
Developmental Disabilities: These are chronic conditions due to mental or physical impairments. FAS is one such disability.