Key Messages
What You Need to Know
Alcohol & Tobacco
The combination of drinking alcohol and smoking tobacco is even more harmful for the developing fetus than consuming alcohol alone. The combined effect amplifies damage to the baby's developing brain and body.
Prevention
Alcohol harms unborn babies. Such babies will need special care all their lives because they could suffer from physical defects, abnormal facial anomalies and be mentally challenged. Do not fall pregnant if you drink alcohol. Use contraceptives correctly.
There is no known safe amount of alcohol during pregnancy. There is no safe time to drink alcohol during pregnancy. There is no safe type of alcohol during pregnancy.
— FASD AwarenessSymbol of Awareness
The FASD Knot
The knot is made of white cord and is tied in a reef knot. The original FAS knot was designed by Bonnie Buxton and Brian Philcox of Canada as a symbol of awareness, solidarity, and the lasting impact of prenatal alcohol exposure.
The reef knot cannot be broken or snapped — the more you pull, the tighter the bond — representing the unbreakable responsibility we all share in protecting unborn children.
The frayed ends represent the damaged nervous system which, unlike the knot itself, cannot be repaired — a powerful reminder of the permanent nature of FASD.
The Circle
Symbolises the womb, the baby's head, the human brain, and the world.
The Cord
Represents the umbilical cord and the bond that joins us all together in caring.
The Reef Knot
Cannot be broken or snapped — the more you pull, the tighter the bond becomes.
The Frayed Ends
Represent the damaged nervous system which cannot be repaired.
Need support or more information?
Find your nearest Matrix® clinic or learn more about how FASD affects development and what you can do.