In a pregnant woman with a history of heavy alcohol consumption, which neonatal problem is a key concern?

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A key concern for a pregnant woman with a history of heavy alcohol consumption is low birth weight. Alcohol is a teratogen that poses significant risks during pregnancy, and one of the most direct impacts of prenatal alcohol exposure is its association with fetal growth restriction. Infants exposed to high levels of alcohol can experience inadequate growth, leading to low birth weight at delivery.

Low birth weight is a strong predictor of various adverse neonatal outcomes, including increased risk for developmental delays and long-term health issues. The effects of alcohol can disrupt the normal development of the fetus, resulting in the baby being born smaller than expected for their gestational age.

While other issues such as preterm labor and congenital heart defects may be associated with alcohol exposure, the most direct consequence of heavy alcohol consumption during pregnancy tends to be low birth weight, making it a specific and critical concern for healthcare providers in managing the health of both mother and baby. Neonatal abstinence syndrome, typically associated with opioid exposure, is less relevant regarding alcohol. Therefore, identifying low birth weight as a primary concern aligns with the known risks of heavy alcohol consumption during pregnancy.

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