What is a potential consequence of excessive alcohol consumption during pregnancy?

Excessive alcohol consumption during pregnancy has significant adverse effects on fetal development, primarily leading to an increased risk of birth defects. Alcohol can cross the placental barrier and disrupt normal fetal growth and development, leading to a range of issues collectively referred to as fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASDs). These disorders can manifest in various ways, including structural abnormalities, growth deficiencies, and neurodevelopmental challenges.

When a pregnant individual consumes alcohol, it affects the developing organs and systems of the fetus, which may result in facial dysmorphism, heart defects, and cognitive impairments. The critical period for these effects often occurs during the first trimester when the fetus is undergoing key developmental processes. The severity of effects correlates with the amount and timing of alcohol exposure, underscoring the importance of avoiding alcohol entirely during pregnancy.

The other options do not reflect the realities of alcohol consumption during pregnancy. For instance, alcohol does not improve fetal growth or cognitive development, nor does it support normal birth weight; rather, its effects are detrimental and linked to a range of complications that compromise the health and development of the fetus.