Can the biological father cause FASD?
No, FASD is caused only by the mother drinking while she is pregnant. However, the father’s drinking can lower his testosterone levels, decrease his healthy sperm, and increase the risk of disorders in offspring. Preliminary animal studies indicate that alcohol can damage the DNA in male sperm. (Abel, 1992: Paternal Exposure to Alcohol). The father’s drinking can make it more difficult for his pregnant partner to not drink while she is pregnant. Women with partners who drink are also more likely to drink, so a big role for future fathers is to support the women’s choice not to drink during pregnancy.
