A congenital disability is a condition that occurs during the development of a baby in the mother’s womb. The majority of birth abnormalities arise during the first three months of pregnancy. According to research in US Census Bureau, one out of every 33 newborns is born with a congenital condition.
A congenital disability may affect how the body appears, functions, or both. Certain birth anomalies, such as cleft lip or neural tube defects, are visible structural abnormalities. Others, such as heart problems, are detected by specialized testing.
Congenital disabilities may vary in severity. The extent to which a birth abnormality impacts a child’s life is mainly determined by the organ or body part affected and the severity of the problem. If you feel like there’s been a lack of medical attention or negligence, consider asking about the issue from birth defect lawyers.
What factors contribute to congenital disabilities?
Specific birth abnormalities have a known cause. However, the actual etiology of many birth abnormalities remains unclear. According to researchers, the majority of birth abnormalities are caused by a complicated combination of circumstances, which may include the following:
Genetics
Some genes may have a modification or mutation that impairs their function. This occurs, for example, in Fragile X syndrome. Specific problems may result in the absence of a gene or a portion of a gene.
Chromosomal abnormalities
It is possible to have a whole chromosome missing from a person’s body. This is how Turner syndrome manifests. In other instances, such as Down syndrome, the infant is born with an extra chromosome.
Exposures to pharmaceuticals, chemicals, or other toxins.
For instance, excessive alcohol use might result in fetal alcohol spectrum disorders. These substances may also induce infections during pregnancy, such as Zika virus infection, resulting in catastrophic brain damage.
Inadequate intake of some nutrients.
Folic acid deficiency before and during pregnancy is a significant risk factor for neural tube abnormalities.
Who are at risk of congenital disability?
Certain circumstances, such as a pregnant woman who continues to smoke, drink alcohol, or use certain “street” drugs throughout pregnancy, may increase the likelihood of delivering a kid with a congenital disability. Mothers who also have certain medical disorders, such as obesity or uncontrolled diabetes, might have a role before and during pregnancy. Apart from having a family member with a birth abnormality, taking certain medications may have a part. Being an older mother, often above 34, may also play a role in congenital disability development.
How are congenital anomalies diagnosed?
Prenatal testing enables health care practitioners to identify some birth abnormalities during pregnancy. That is why it is critical to have routine prenatal care.
Other birth abnormalities may not be discovered until the baby is delivered. Providers may discover them during newborn screening. Certain deformities, such as club foot, are immediately noticeable. On other occasions, the health care professional may overlook a flaw until the kid develops symptoms later in life.
What are the birth defects therapy options?
Frequently, children born with birth abnormalities need specialized attention and treatment. Because the symptoms and complications associated with birth abnormalities vary, so do the therapies. Surgery, medications, assistive devices, physical therapy, and speech therapy are all possible therapies.
Frequently, infants born with birth abnormalities need a range of treatments and may require consultation with many doctors. The primary health care provider may arrange the child’s specialized care.
Is it possible to avoid birth defects?
Not all birth defects are preventable. But there are a few things you can do before and throughout pregnancy to help your baby’s well-being.
Begin prenatal care as soon as you believe you’re pregnant and keep in touch with your doctor throughout. 400 mcg folic acid daily Start taking it a month before you want to become pregnant. Adopt a healthy lifestyle.
Consult your health care practitioner about any medications you are currently taking or considering taking. This category contains both prescription and OTC medications and dietary or herbal supplements. Avoid infections during pregnancy by learning how to prevent them, and if you have any medical issues, try to get them under control before becoming pregnant.
