Since being published in 2011, there has been substantial new research on alcohol use and the physical, mental, and social effects. Health Canada has funded the Canadian Centre on Substance Use and Addiction to update Canada’s LRDG to reflect this new evidence.
Feature: The Experiences of a Birth Mother
Today, I would like to share my story with you in the hopes it will open your hearts and mind to the reality we go through daily as a biological parent.
Article Summary #11: PAE and Developmental Programming of Mental Illness
There have been numerous research studies examining the impacts of high-dose alcohol consumption during pregnancy on postnatal development. However, there are not many studies on low and early dose effects of prenatal alcohol exposure on the offspring’s mental health.
Article Summary #10: Self-Regulation and Emotional Reactivity in Infants with Prenatal Exposure
Over the last 13 years, there has been a 127% increase in opioid use disorders during pregnancy. However, developmental challenges associated with prenatal substance exposure have been under-explored, with no prior studies examining the combined effects of opioids and alcohol use during pregnancy.
International Stress Week 2021
Stress is a normal response our bodies experience in certain situations and environments. Small doses of stress help us function by helping us meet deadlines, get places on time, and prepare for important events. However, consistently high levels of stress can be detrimental to our health.
Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder and Stress
Stress is a normal part of our daily lives and certain amounts of stress are important to help us function. Small doses of stress help us meet deadlines, get to places on time, and prepare for important events. However, long-term stress can be harmful and can lead to mental and physical health problems, like depression, substance use issues, and stroke.
Article Summary #4: Characterizing adverse prenatal and postnatal experiences
Prenatal alcohol exposure (PAE) is known to cause negative outcomes for individuals exposed. However, the majority of people with prenatal alcohol exposure (PAE) are also exposed to other prenatal or postnatal factors that may negatively impact their physical and mental health, including exposure to other substances, toxic stress, lack of resources, abuse, and neglect. These factors can interact with one another, leading to unexpected or cumulative negative effects on health outcomes.
Article Summary #3: Forty Years of Assessing the Effects of Prenatal Alcohol Exposure
Early life assessment of neurodevelopment and behaviour (NDB) can facilitate timely and meaningful intervention for young children at risk of negative outcomes. In the current study, researchers reviewed the literature to examine what has been learned over the last forty years about NDB difficulties in children with PAE in the first 2 years of life.
Issue Paper: Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder and Adversity
The combination of this brain-based stress sensitivity along with chronic adverse experiences can create significant challenges for individuals with FASD and their families, warranting special consideration and support.