Approximately 50% of congenital anomalies cannot be linked to a specific cause. However, known causes include single gene defects, chromosomal disorders, multifactorial inheritance, environmental teratogens and micronutrient deficiencies . Genetic causes can be traced to inherited genes or from mutations.
What causes a congenital birth defect?
The most common, severe congenital anomalies are heart defects , neural tube defects and Down syndrome. Although congenital anomalies may be the result of one or more genetic, infectious, nutritional or environmental factors, it is often difficult to identify the exact causes. Some congenital anomalies can be prevented.
What are two causes of birth defects?
- Genetic problems. One or more genes might have a change or mutation that results in them not working properly, such as in Fragile X syndrome. ...
- Chromosomal problems. ...
- Infections. ...
- Exposure to medications, chemicals, or other agents during pregnancy.
What is the leading cause of birth defects?
The causes of some birth defects can be difficult or impossible to identify. However, certain behaviors greatly increase the risk of birth defects. These include smoking , using illegal drugs, and drinking alcohol while pregnant. Other factors, such as exposure to toxic chemicals or viruses, also increase risk.
Can birth defects be seen on ultrasound?
Fetal ultrasound during pregnancy can also show the possibility of certain birth defects. But ultrasound is not 100% accurate . Some babies with birth defects may look the same on ultrasound as those without problems.
What are the 5 most common birth defects?
- heart defects.
- cleft lip/palate.
- Down syndrome.
- spina bifida.
Can you prevent birth defects?
Birth defects cannot always be prevented , but there are many aspects of prenatal care that can protect your unborn baby. If your baby does have a birth defect or fetal condition, treatments are now available that have revolutionized an affected baby’s ability to survive and thrive after birth.
What infection causes birth defects?
Precautions to Take While Pregnant
Toxoplasmosis, cytomegalovirus (CMV), varicella, rubella, and lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus (LCMV) are among the agents that are recognized to have the potential to cause birth defects in a developing fetus.
What are the rarest birth defects?
- Muscular dystrophy.
- Osteogenesis imperfecta.
- Progeria.
- Smith Lemli Opitz syndrome.
- Spinal muscular atrophy.
- Tuberous sclerosis.
- Turner syndrome.
- X-linked lymphoproliferative syndrome (Duncan disease)
What are the signs of an abnormal pregnancy?
- Vaginal bleeding during pregnancy. ...
- Abdominal discomfort, cramping or pain. ...
- Frequent headaches and blurred vision. ...
- Excessive thirst and sweating. ...
- No fetal movement or reduced fetal movement at more than 20 weeks gestation.
Which trimester is most important for brain development?
The brain begins to form early in the first trimester and continues until you give birth. During pregnancy, fetal brain development will be responsible for certain actions like breathing, kicking, and the heartbeat.
Should I be worried about birth defects?
CB: Babies who have birth defects often need special care and interventions to survive and to thrive developmentally. Early intervention is vital to improving outcomes for these babies. If your child has a birth defect, you should ask his or her doctor about local resources and treatment .
Does folic acid prevent Down syndrome?
April 17, 2003 — Taking folic acid supplements before and during early pregnancy may not only help prevent neural tube defects in babies, but it may also reduce the risk of Down syndrome .
What week is most critical in pregnancy?
In general, major defects of the body and internal organs are more likely to occur between 3 to 12 embryo / fetal weeks . This is the same as 5 to 14 gestational weeks (weeks since the first day of your last period). This is also referred to as the first trimester.
Can stress cause birth defects?
An increase in the stressful life events index was associated with increased risk of all types of birth defects , with the strongest association for isolated cleft lip with or without cleft palate and anencephaly.
What are the 10 most common birth defects?
- Ventricular septal defect. ...
- Congenital dislocated hip. ...
- Trisomy 21 or Down syndrome. ...
- Hydrocephalus. ...
- Cleft Palate. ...
- Trisomy 18 or Edward Syndrome. ...
- Renal Agenesis/dysgenesis. ...
- Cleft lip and palate. A cleft lip and palate birth defect is a cleft or split in the upper lip as well as in the palate.
