Birth defects are a scary thing to think about, but it’s important to be as informed as possible about them. In this article, we will discuss the three main types of birth defects, what causes them, and some of the risks associated with them. We will also provide important information so you can reduce the risk of having a child with a birth defect. Knowledge is power, and we hope that this article will help empower you when it comes to making decisions about your pregnancy.
There are three main types of birth defects: structural birth defects, genetic birth defects, and birth defects caused by environmental factors.
Structural birth defects are defined as abnormalities in the shape or structure of the body that can affect nearly any part of the body. These birth defects can be caused by a variety of factors, including exposure to certain medications or chemicals during pregnancy, underlying conditions or diseases in the mother, and genetic mutations. Some common examples of structural birth defects include cleft lips and palate, club feet, heart defects, spina bifida, and Down syndrome.
Genetic birth defects are those that are passed down from parents to their children through genes. This does not necessarily mean that both parents have a faulty gene that is passed down to their child; it simply means that there is a possibility of birth defects occurring if the gene is present. Some examples of genetic birth defects include cystic fibrosis, hemophilia, and sickle cell anemia.
There are also birth defects that can be caused by exposure to certain medications or chemicals during pregnancy. For example, women who take certain types of medication for conditions like epilepsy, depression, or anxiety may be at risk for birth defects in their unborn children. Additionally, some environmental factors such as pesticides, lead paint, and radiation can also cause birth defects.
While birth defects can occur at any time during a woman’s pregnancy, many birth defects become more likely to occur as a woman gets closer to her due date.
If you are concerned about birth defects, it is important to talk to your doctor or other healthcare provider. They can provide you with more information about birth defects and ways to reduce your risk of having a child with birth defects. With the right care and support, most women are able to give birth to healthy babies despite the presence of birth defects.
