According to WHO, 6 percent of children are born with birth defects worldwide. Birth defects are structural or functional defects that occur when the baby develops in the mother’s womb. Some of these birth defects can be identified before or perhaps after delivery. Some examples of birth defects include Cleft lip and palate, clubfoot and diaphragm hernias. Other conditions are nerve tube defects, congenital heart defects, chromosome anomalies and down syndrome.

Not all birth defects can be prevented or diagnosed before birth. Birth defects can occur for many reasons. Dr. Manju Khemini, Principal Director (Maternity and Gynecology) and Max Smart Super Specialty Hospital can affect the unit chief, Saket, Folic Acid deficiency, diabetes in mothers, obesity, some drugs during pregnancy, use of some drugs, alcohol consumption, and recreational medicines.

She further states that infections such as rubella or German measles can also have harmful effects during the first three months of pregnancy. Additionally, genetic factors can contribute to certain birth defects, and consunus marriages can increase the risk of certain conditions.

So what can a woman do to stop these defects?

Dr. Khemini says that it is important to undergo pre-elasticity counseling and all relevant trials from all relevant tests advised by a doctor. She says that more defective children are born for obese women, making it important to lose weight before planning pregnancy or adopt at least a healthy lifestyle.

Dr. Khemini advised women to start taking 400 micrograms (MCG) of folic acid daily before and during pregnancy. She explains that consumption of folic acid is known as major birth defects, known as nerve tube defects (NTDs), which affects the spinal cord and brain.

Patients suffering from seized disorders should consult a neurologist to switch to safe drugs for pregnancy, as they require high doses of more folic acid than normal.

She also warns that some anti-knee drugs should be prevented at least six months before pregnancy as they can cause birth defects. Additionally, she advises to avoid alcohol and recreational drugs while trying to conceive. Self-medication should also be avoided, because some medicines taken during pregnancy can cause birth defects.

During pregnancy, regular check-ups recommended by a maternity specialist and ultrasound are essential for early diagnosis of possible birth defects. Dr. Khemini concluded that pre-generous consultation, essential testing, folic acid supplementation and a healthy lifestyle can help reduce the risk of certain birth defects.

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