Module 2

Learning objectives

1. Describe how alcohol can affect the developing fetus.

2. Define FASDs.

3. Define teratogen.

4. Discuss why the recommendation is for no amount of alcohol during pregnancy, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding.

Suggested supplemental readings

• Coles CD. Critical periods for prenatal alcohol exposure: Evidence from animal and human studies. Alcohol Health and Research World. 1994;18(1):22-29.

Suggested activities or assignments

• Teratogens are powerful agents known to compromise typical pregnancy and fetal development resulting in birth defects and/or abnormal or impaired behavior. Based on the four categories of teratogens, develop a list of teratogens and indicate which are within an individual’s ability to control. How might the teratogenic effects of alcohol use be included as a routine discussion during clinical care?

• Reducing exposure to toxic environmental agents is a critical area of intervention for women’s health nurses. Develop and discuss a list of challenges to address alcohol use among women of reproductive age, including societal and individual benefits.

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