Fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD), also called fetal alcohol exposure (FAE), describes a range of mild to severe problems that may affect a developing fetus if alcohol is used during pregnancy. These problems include certain facial features, such as a small face or narrow eyes. They also include slowed growth before and after birth, birth defects, and lifelong problems with learning and behavior.

The type and severity of effects from FASD depends on:

• How much, how often, and at what stage of pregnancy alcohol is used. No amount of alcohol is safe to drink during pregnancy. The most severe effects—called fetal alcohol syndrome—often are related to heavy alcohol use. But any amount of alcohol can harm a fetus.
• Overall health during pregnancy. If other drugs were used during pregnancy, or if there were other health problems, an infant is at increased risk for more severe problems as they grow.
• Family health history. Some fetuses are more likely to be harmed by alcohol exposure than others. It's not clear why. But there may be a genetic link.