RT Journal Article SR Electronic T1 Preventing fetal alcohol spectrum disorders. Preconception counseling and diagnosis help. JF Canadian Family Physician JO Can Fam Physician FD The College of Family Physicians of Canada SP 1199 OP 1201 VO 51 IS 9 A1 Suzanne C Tough A1 Margaret Clarke A1 Sterling Clarren YR 2005 UL http://www.cfp.ca/content/51/9/1199.abstract AB QUESTION: By the time women find out they are pregnant and see a family physician, they might have already consumed alcohol during the pregnancy and affected the development of their fetuses. How can family physicians better prevent exposure to alcohol during pregnancy? ANSWER: Women of childbearing age should be counseled about the risks associated with alcohol consumption during pregnancy before they become pregnant. Diagnosing children who have fetal alcohol spectrum disorders can help identify birth mothers who are at risk of other alcohol-exposed pregnancies and who need support to change their behaviour.