Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome (NAS) and Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD)
- Jun 12
- 3 min read
This professional learning session explores the neurodevelopmental impact of prenatal exposure to alcohol and other substances, with a particular focus on Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome (NAS) and Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD). It draws on NHS guidance which describes NAS as a group of withdrawal symptoms that may occur in newborn babies following exposure to certain prescribed or non-prescribed substances during pregnancy, most commonly opioids, while also recognising that other substances and medicines may contribute to neonatal withdrawal or adaptation difficulties.
FASD is different. It is a lifelong neurodevelopmental condition caused by prenatal alcohol exposure.
NAS and FASD should not be treated as interchangeable; however, professionals need to understand their direct points of connection, the importance of recording their observations, including the impact of substance exposure in pregnancy, the possibility of multiple exposures, early developmental vulnerability, family context, and the need for skilled, compassionate, multi-disciplinary support.
Course Focus
The session will examine how alcohol, opioids and other substances may affect fetal and infant development. Participants will consider good practice in NHS-informed understanding of NAS, including recognition of withdrawal symptoms, monitoring, early care and treatment pathways, alongside FASD-informed practice that recognises the lifelong effects of prenatal alcohol exposure and the importance of adapting support across childhood, adolescence and adulthood.
Learning Outcomes
· Examine the common symptoms and presentations of FASD and NAS, including where they may overlap and where they differ.
· Consider NHS guidance on NAS, including neonatal withdrawal, observation, non-pharmacological support, treatment escalation and discharge planning.
· Clarify the direct links between NAS, prenatal alcohol exposure and FASD without conflating distinct clinical and developmental presentations.
· Explore how alcohol and drugs can contribute to neurodevelopmental trauma, vulnerability and altered developmental trajectories.
· Understand the impact of prenatal alcohol exposure on brain development and lifelong functioning.
· Review developmental milestones in the womb and compare the potential impact of different exposures at different stages of pregnancy.
· Recognise how FASD can affect brain functions, development, learning, behaviour, regulation and day-to-day life.
· Identify the facial features associated with FASD and understand when these features are formed.
· Explore developmental divergence from peers and the implications for assessment, support planning and reasonable adjustments.
· Consider co-occurring conditions and overlapping needs, including autism, ADHD, learning disabilities and Tourette’s syndrome.
· Apply FASD-Informed UK principles of responsive, strengths-based, trauma- informed and multi-disciplinary practice.
· Reflect on good practice in signposting, joined-up working and supporting families without blame or stigma.
Who Should Attend?
This session is suitable for professionals and team members who come into contact with babies, children, young people or families affected by prenatal exposure to alcohol, opioids, prescribed medicines or other substances. It is particularly relevant for practitioners working in education, health, maternity and neonatal care, social care, early years, safeguarding, family support, youth justice and allied services.
Why This Matters
Good neurodevelopmental support depends on responsive, informed practice. FASD-Informed UK practice emphasises moving from blame to understanding, recognising brain-based differences, adapting expectations, strengthening protective relationships and empowering all members of the team around the child. By improving understanding of NAS, alcohol exposure and FASD, professionals are better equipped to recognise needs early, respond proportionately and work collaboratively to improve outcomes for children and families.
Booking Information
To find out more or to book a place, please email: info@fasdinformed.co.uk
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