When it comes to foetal health issues due to alcohol use, mothers have always been the object of scrutiny. However, recent findings reveal that a father’s alcohol consumption is also a pivotal factor in foetal alcohol syndrome.
This blog provides details about foetal alcohol syndrome, its causes, and how men’s drinking habits before conception play a part in it.
What Is Foetal Alcohol Syndrome?
Foetal alcohol syndrome (FAS) is a condition that affects the baby’s health due to alcohol consumption during pregnancy. It can lead to a wide range of developmental issues known as foetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASDs).
The foetal alcohol syndrome signs can be seen as the babies grow. These are listed below:
- Distinctive facial features (small eyes, thin upper lip, smooth philtrum)
- Behavioural issues (impulsivity, attention problems)
- Developmental delays
- Neurological problems
- Motor skill issues
- Learning disabilities
- Defects in heart
- Hearing and vision problems
These symptoms may not be too easy to spot in infants, but as the child grows, the effects of foetal alcohol syndrome can become noticeable. These are long-lasting and often require ongoing medical, educational, and psychological support.
Links Between FAS and Father’s Alcohol Consumption
It was believed that only a mother’s alcohol intake was solely responsible. This is because whatever she eats and drinks is received by the baby through the placenta.
However, there were cases when the baby showed the symptoms of FAS, even though the mother was sober before and during pregnancy. That’s when researchers probed for the missing clue, i.e., the fathers.
So, how much does alcohol affect male fertility and the risks of FAS?
As per a study published in the journal Alcohol Health and Research World, it was documented that male alcohol use affects fertility by:
- Chromosomal abnormalities
- Reduced testosterone levels
- Decreased libido
- Poor sperm quality
- DNA fragmentation in sperm
- Imbalancing hormone levels
Some of these factors can impact the embryo’s health and increase the risk of developmental disorders in the baby.
This means that the cause of foetal alcohol syndrome can be traced even before conception has happened in the mother’s body.
How Much is Too Much?
When it comes to foetal health, even a little alcohol is bad; that’s why moms-to-be should instantly drop their drinking plans.
But what about dads? Research indicates that even a little alcohol intake by men can lead to adverse effects on their fertility and increase the risks of FAS.
As per a study by Texas A&M University, it can take over a month for alcohol-related damage in sperm to reverse. Since sperm renewal takes approximately 60 days, the research recommends that men abstain from alcohol for at least 3 months before trying to conceive.
Even if you hear experts, it is advised the same that men should avoid alcohol completely at least 3 months before conception. This is so because spermatogenesis (formation of new sperm cells) takes 64 to 74 days. By avoiding alcohol during this sensitive window, men can prevent the risks of FAS to the baby.
What Couples Should Do Before Trying to Conceive
Now that you understand how can alcohol cause birth defects, be it through the mother or the father, let’s see how you can prevent FAS and plan to conceive for a healthy pregnancy:
- Both parents should avoid alcohol consumption 3 months before conception.
- Seek counseling or professional help for alcohol dependence or binge drinking if you find it difficult to stop.
- Schedule a pre-conception health checkup to ensure that you both are physically ready.
- Take a nutrient-rich diet and do regular exercise.
- Use prenatal and fertility supplements as advised by a healthcare provider.
Being proactive can significantly reduce the risk of passing on harmful effects to future generations.
Read More: I Pill Side Effects: Things Women Should Know Before Considering Plan B
Final Thoughts
While foetal alcohol syndrome is often associated with maternal drinking, the science sheds light on the new finding that fathers’ alcohol consumption plays a role too. Alcohol impacts sperm quality, contributes to genetic changes, and may even influence a baby’s brain and physical development. It is important to educate both parents about their alcohol habits and their consequences on foetal health.
Preventing FAS starts before you test positive for pregnancy. For a healthy pregnancy and future for your child, both partners should prioritise wellness, eliminate alcohol, and take shared responsibility.
