Women trying to conceive and pregnant women are encouraged to avoid drinking alcohol in any quantity. Pregnant alcoholic women should be involved in alcohol abuse rehabilitation programs and monitored closely throughout pregnancy.

Support groups can benefit the woman by providing interaction with members who share common experiences and problems. For this condition, see alcoholism - support group.

For free information on how to stop drinking contact:

• The National Drug and Alcohol Treatment Referral Routing Service at 1-800-662-HELP (4357)
• The National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependency at 1-800-NCA-CALL (622-2255)

Outcome for infants with fetal alcohol syndrome is variable depending on the extent of symptoms, but almost none are neurologically normal.

The problems of the infant and child with fetal alcohol syndrome are diverse and difficult to manage. Cardiac defects may necessitate surgery. There is no effective therapy for the mental retardation.

Alcohol consumption during pregnancy may result in:

• Miscarriage or stillbirth
• Premature delivery
• A mentally retarded baby
• A baby who is small for gestational age
• A baby who may die in infancy
• A baby with a small head, defects, or malformations of the eyes, nose, or mouth
• A baby with malformation of the heart or other vital organs
• A baby with slow growth and poor coordination
• A restless, overactive baby that may later exhibit hyperactive behavior and learning disabilities

Call for an appointment with your health care provider if you are drinking alcohol regularly or heavily and are finding it difficult to cut back or stop. Also, call if you are drinking alcohol in any quantity while pregnant or contemplating becoming pregnant.