Clinical Resources for Health Care Professionals

Early intervention and prenatal education can make a profound difference in preventing prenatal alcohol exposure. The downloadable resources in this section provide an overview of current prenatal alcohol exposure screening practices in Minnesota, as well as clinical guidelines and best practices for prenatal screening.

Why Prenatal Screening Matters
Prenatal alcohol exposure can lead to lifelong physical, cognitive and behavioral challenges, collectively known as fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASD). Early identification is critical to connecting individuals with the right support and interventions, improving long-term outcomes. By incorporating routine screening into clinical practice, health care providers play a vital role in prevention, early diagnosis and access to essential resources. Identifying exposure helps ensure that individuals and families receive the support they need to thrive.

FASD often goes undiagnosed due to the complexity and variability of symptoms. These resources are designed to help clinicians like you make informed diagnoses, offer appropriate interventions and guide families through the process.

Why Accurate Diagnosis Matters
Proper diagnosis helps families access critical services and plays a key role in ensuring that individuals with an FASD receive the right support throughout their lives. By utilizing proven diagnostic methods, you help mitigate long-term challenges for those affected by prenatal alcohol exposure.