SmartServe Ontario Practice Exam

Can drinking alcohol during pregnancy lead to developmental disorders in the child?

1. Yes

2. No

3. Only if consumed in large amounts

4. Only in the first trimester

The correct answer is: Yes

Drinking alcohol during pregnancy is widely recognized to pose significant risks to fetal development, leading to a range of developmental disorders collectively referred to as Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASDs). Research shows that alcohol can interfere with the normal development of the brain and other organs in the fetus, leading to cognitive and physical impairments that can last a lifetime. The risks are particularly pronounced because there is no established safe amount of alcohol that can be consumed during pregnancy, as even small amounts may be harmful. This understanding reinforces the consensus that complete abstinence from alcohol is the safest approach during pregnancy, to avoid any potential developmental issues for the child. While some may believe that consuming alcohol only in large amounts or limiting consumption to certain stages of pregnancy might be safer, the reality is that any alcohol intake during pregnancy carries risks that can affect the child's health and development.