Hidden Facts About Birth Defects and How to Prevent Them; Expert Weighs In

According to WHO, 6 per cent of babies are born with birth defects worldwide. Birth defects are structural or functional defects that occur when babies are developing in the mother's womb. Some of these birth defects can be identified before birth or maybe after delivery. Some examples of birth defects include cleft lip and palate, clubfoot, and diaphragmatic hernias. Other conditions are neural tube defects, congenital heart defects, chromosomal anomalies, and Down syndrome.

Not all birth defects can be prevented or diagnosed before birth. Birth defects can happen for many reasons. According to Dr Manju Khemani, Principal Director (Obstetrics and Gynaecology) and Head of Unit at Max Smart Super Speciality Hospital, Saket, factors such as folic acid deficiency, diabetes in mothers, obesity, the use of certain drugs during pregnancy, alcohol consumption, and recreational drugs can affect foetal development.

She further explains that infections like rubella or German measles during the first three months of pregnancy can also have harmful effects. Additionally, genetic factors may contribute to some birth defects, and consanguineous marriages can increase the risk of certain conditions.

So what can a woman do to prevent these defects?

Dr Khemani says pre-pregnancy counselling and undergoing all relevant tests as advised by a doctor are crucial. She says that more defective babies are born to obese women, making it crucial to reduce weight before planning a pregnancy or at least adopt a healthier lifestyle.

Dr Khemani advises women to start taking 400 micrograms (mcg) of folic acid daily for at least one month before and during pregnancy. She explains that folic acid intake helps prevent major birth defects known as neural tube defects (NTDs), which affect the spinal cord and brain.

Patients suffering from seizure disorders should consult a neurologist to switch to safe medications for pregnancy, as they require a higher dosage of folic acid than usual.

She also warns that certain anti-acne drugs should be stopped at least six months before pregnancy since they can lead to birth defects. Additionally, she advises avoiding alcohol and recreational drugs when trying to conceive. Self-medication should also be avoided, as some drugs taken during pregnancy can cause birth defects.

During pregnancy, regular check-ups and ultrasounds as recommended by an obstetrician are essential for early diagnosis of potential birth defects. Dr Khemani concludes that pre-pregnancy counselling, necessary tests, folic acid supplementation, and a healthy lifestyle can help reduce the risk of some birth defects.

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