the primary effects of FASD are those resultant behaviours that most clearly reflect the brain damage caused by the use of alcohol in pregnancy. For example: an inability to effectively use mathematical, time or money concepts.

the secondary effects of FASD are those behaviours that develop as a result of the stress and strain of living in an environment that has not adapted to the behaviours caused by the primary effects. Secondary effects are generally serious and repetitive. For example: chronic abuse of alcohol or drugs to self-medicate.

is used for the type of brain damage seen in ARND or FAS when maternal confirmation is impossible or not forthcoming. It is not yet commonly used in Canada.

a substance that causes birth defects. Terato  from the Greek meaning monster, Gen from the Greek meaning make; ie. monster-maker Common birth defects include cleft lip and palate, clubfoot, and heart valve defects