Birth defects are problems that happen when a baby is growing in the uterus (in the womb). Birth defects can be minor or serious. They can affect organ function, appearance, function, and physical and mental development. Most birth defects appear in the first trimester of pregnancy, when the organs are still forming. Some birth defects are harmless. Other types of socks require long-term medical treatment.
Birth defects can result from:
Genetic
Parents' unhealthy lifestyles and living habits
Exposure to certain drugs and chemicals
Infection during pregnancy
Combination of the above factors
However, scientists have not yet been able to confirm the exact cause of fetal malformations.
All pregnant women are at risk of having a baby with a birth defect. The risk increases under any of the following conditions:
Family history of birth defect or other genetic disorder
Drug use, alcohol consumption, or smoking during pregnancy
Mother is 35 years old or older
Prenatal care is inadequate
Untreated bacterial or bacterial infections, including sexually transmitted diseases
Use some high-risk drugs such as isotretinoin and lithium
Women with preexisting health conditions, such as diabetes, are also at a higher risk of having a baby with a birth defect.
Birth defects are often classified according to structural, functional and developmental defects.
Structural defects are when a part of the body is lost or deformed. The most common structural defects are:
Heart defect
Cleft palate , when there is an opening or division in the lips or palate
Cyst, when the spinal cord is not properly developed
Feet crooked, when the foot is pointed inward rather than out
Developmental or functional birth defects that prevent a body part or system from working properly. These defects often cause brain or developmental defects. Developmental or functional birth defects include metabolic defects, sensory problems, and problems with the nervous system. Metabolic defects cause chemical problems in the child's body.
Types of functional or developmental birth defects include:
Down syndrome : causes delays in physical and mental development
Sickle cell disease, which occurs when red blood cells become distorted
Cystic fibrosis damages the lungs and digestive system
Some children face physical problems related to certain birth defects. However, many children do not show any abnormalities. Disability can sometimes go undetected for months or even years after the baby is born.
Many types of birth defects can be diagnosed during pregnancy. A medical professional can perform prenatal ultrasound to diagnose some birth defects in the uterus. The specialist may also perform further tests, such as a blood test and a follicle puncture (amniocentesis).
Pregnant women at high risk due to family history, high maternal age, or other factors often have to take the above tests.
Prenatal tests can help determine if the mother has an infection or other condition that is harmful to the baby. Physical and hearing screening can also help doctors diagnose birth defects after birth. A type of blood test called a newborn screening can help doctors diagnose some birth defects right after birth, before symptoms occur.
It is important to know that newborn screening does not always detect defects when they appear. A screening test can also misidentify defects. However, most fetal defects can be diagnosed with certainty after birth.
Treatment options vary depending on its condition and severity. Some birth defects can be corrected before birth or immediately after. Other disabilities, however, can affect a child for the rest of his or her life. Mild defects can be stressful, but they usually do not affect overall quality of life. Severe fetal defects, such as cerebral palsy or degenerative spine disease, can cause long-term disability or even death. You should talk with your doctor about the appropriate treatment for your child's condition.
Medication: Medications can be used to treat certain birth defects or to reduce the risk of complications from certain defects. In some cases, drugs may be prescribed to the mother to correct the birth defect.
Surgery: Surgery can correct certain defects or ease harmful symptoms. Some people with birth defects, such as cleft lips, may undergo cosmetic surgery to both benefit health as well as the aesthetics. Many babies with heart defects also need surgery.
Home care: Parents can receive specific instructions about feeding, bathing, and monitoring babies with birth defects.
Many birth defects cannot be prevented, but there are things you can do to reduce your risk of having a baby with a birth defect.
Women planning to become pregnant should start taking folic acid supplements before conception. These supplements should also be taken throughout pregnancy. Folic acid can help prevent spinal and brain defects. Prenatal vitamins are also recommended during pregnancy.
Women should avoid alcohol, drugs, and tobacco use during and after pregnancy. They should also be cautious about taking certain drugs. Some medicines that are safe when you are not pregnant can also cause serious birth defects when a pregnant woman takes them. Talk to your doctor about any medications you can take, including over-the-counter medicines and supplements.
Most vaccines are safe during pregnancy. In fact, some vaccines can help prevent birth defects. Some live virus vaccines can theoretically harm the development of the fetus, so they should not be taken during pregnancy. You should ask your doctor which vaccines are necessary and safe.
Maintaining a steady weight also helps reduce the risk of complications during pregnancy. Women with pre-existing medical conditions, such as diabetes, should take special care of their health.
It is extremely important to have regular prenatal visits. If your pregnancy is at high risk, your doctor may perform additional prenatal screening to identify defects. Depending on the type of disability, your doctor may treat it before giving birth.
A genetic counselor can advise couples with a family history of defects or other risk factors for fetal defects. A counselor can help when you are considering having a baby or becoming pregnant. Genetic counselors can determine the likelihood that your baby will be born with a disability by evaluating family history and medical records. They may also order tests to analyze the genes of mother, father, and baby.
Birth defects that happen to a baby are something no parent wants. However, proper care, a healthy diet, and a healthy lifestyle combined with regular check-ups can help prevent or detect fetal defects early.
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