Questions: How does alcohol affect the baby during prenatal development?

The answer is the fourth one: It can produce a spectrum of symptoms that include physical and behavioral abnormalities.

Explanation for each option:

1. It can only produce negative effects if consumed during the second month of pregnancy: This is incorrect. Alcohol can have detrimental effects at any stage of pregnancy, not just the second month. The developing fetus is vulnerable to alcohol throughout the entire pregnancy.

2. It can only produce negative effects if consumed through patterns of binge drinking: This is also incorrect. While binge drinking is particularly harmful, even moderate or occasional alcohol consumption can negatively affect prenatal development.

3. It can lead to problems with the kidneys, bones, and heart that go away after birth: This is incorrect. The problems caused by prenatal alcohol exposure, such as those affecting the kidneys, bones, and heart, often do not go away after birth and can lead to long-term health issues.

4. It can produce a spectrum of symptoms that include physical and behavioral abnormalities: This is correct. Prenatal alcohol exposure can lead to Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASDs), which encompass a range of physical, behavioral, and cognitive abnormalities. These can include growth deficiencies, facial abnormalities, and central nervous system dysfunction, among other issues.

Summary: Alcohol consumption during pregnancy can produce a spectrum of symptoms that include physical and behavioral abnormalities, collectively known as Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASDs). These effects can occur at any stage of pregnancy and are not limited to specific patterns of drinking.