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As we’ve been learning about prenatal development in this class, one topic that really hit home for me was teratogens specifically, alcohol. I chose alcohol as my focus for this project not just because it’s one of the most common and dangerous teratogens, but also because I’ve seen firsthand how damaging it can be. Some people in my extended family have been deeply affected by alcohol, and I’ve seen how it impacts both the individual and their children. That made this research feel very real to me.

When someone drinks during pregnancy, the alcohol crosses the placenta and reaches the baby, who can’t process it like an adult can. This can cause a range of lifelong issues called Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD). These include physical problems, delays in development, and challenges with behavior, memory, and learning. It’s heartbreaking to know that these effects are permanent and totally preventable.

One thing I’ve really taken away from this unit is that there is no “safe” amount of alcohol during pregnancy. It doesn’t matter if it’s wine, beer, or a cocktail any amount can be harmful, especially in the first trimester, when most women don’t even know they’re pregnant yet. That’s when the baby’s brain and major organs are forming, which makes that period especially sensitive to damage.

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Key effects of alcohol on a developing fetus include:

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Key effects of alcohol on a developing fetus include:

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Intellectual disabilities and brain development problems

Facial differences

Growth delays

Trouble with attention, memory, and learning

Social and emotional challenges

Factors like how much alcohol is consumed, how often, and even genetics or nutrition can all affect how severely a baby is impacted. But honestly, the risk just isn’t worth it.

Learning about this has made me think more deeply about how important it is to talk openly about these risks especially in families and communities where alcohol use is normalized, or where people might not know the facts.

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This campaign should especially target young adults and college students people who might not be thinking about pregnancy yet but could become pregnant without knowing right away. It should also reach new parents, caregivers, and even partners and family members, since they can influence a pregnant person’s decisions.

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Skip the buzz, show real love.

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1. Instagram and TikTok, with short, real-life videos and interviews

2. college campuses and local coffee shops, especially in areas with high rates of alcohol use

3. Flyers and posters with QR codes that link to videos or educational resources

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I’ve seen how alcohol can affect families for generations. I’ve watched relatives struggle with disabilities caused by prenatal alcohol exposure, and I’ve also seen the shame and regret that some mothers carry because they weren’t informed about the risks. There are still so many people who think that drinking a little bit is okay. I even remember someone saying, “My mom drank wine and I turned out fine” but that’s not true for everyone.

This campaign isn’t about judgment it’s about prevention. It’s about making sure people have the facts and the support they need to make safe choices. Learning this in class and connecting it with my own family experiences has shown me how critical early education and awareness really are.