National Birth Defects Prevention Month

• Written by Ritika Malik

  Reviewed by Munmi Sharma

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Holding your little munchkin in your arms, counting their tiny toes and little fingers, and feeling every heartbeat is one of the best feelings in the world for couples. But for this feeling, some parents have to come across a challenge they never imagined: birth defects. Did you know that, as per WHO, the prevalence of birth defects differs from 61-69.9/1000 live births? 

January is National Birth Defects Prevention Month, an indication that precautionary care for pregnant mothers should be prioritised. In this guide, we will discuss the significance of this day and share information related to birth defects to better understand. So, give it a read until the end.

What is National Birth Defects Prevention Month?

National Birth Defects Prevention Month is celebrated to increase awareness about birth defects and focus on precautionary measures to eliminate the probability of birth defect-related incidents. This initiative underlines straightforward and implementable steps that parents, caregivers, and healthcare experts can take to ensure healthy pregnancies. 

How to Celebrate National Birth Defects Awareness Month?

The journey to preventing birth defects begins with spreading awareness. If you are willing to contribute, here is what you can do:

• Share Knowledge: Enlighten people about the significance of essential nutrients such as folic acid, frequent check-ups, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
• Participate in Local Campaigns: Community campaignings or events during National Birth Defects Awareness Month.
• Advocate for Improved Policies: Uplift policymakers to enhance healthcare services for both mother and baby.
• Attract Social Media Attention: Social media is the best medium for raising awareness. So, use hashtags such as #BirthDefectsPrevention and #NationalBirthDefectsAwarenessMonth to interest people and engage them in the conversation.

What is a Birth Defect?

A birth defect is a structural or functional anomaly that befalls when a baby is growing in the mother’s womb. These defects can impact physical development, appearance, organ functioning, or mental ability. Also known as congenital anomalies, birth defects might differ from mild to extreme and are often diagnosed during pregnancy, at birth, or after birth. Some of the common instances involve cleft palate, Down syndrome, heart defects, and spina bifida. 

What Causes Birth Defects?

Birth defects occur due to different contributing factors, usually including: 

• Genetic Factors: Involves anomalies in the DNA of a baby that might lead to conditions like cystic fibrosis or Down syndrome. Family history increases the probability of developing birth defects in a baby. 
• Environmental Factors: Birth defects are often the result of environmental factors as well, like the use of drugs, medications, or consuming alcohol during pregnancy. Viruses like Zika or Rubella infections also contribute to the development of birth defects. 
• Maternal Health Conditions: Mothers who have chronic diseases such as diabetes or obesity enhance the risk of birth defects during pregnancy. Expecting mothers who don’t address conditions like hypertension on time can also experience birth defects in their babies. 
• Nutritional Deficiencies: Insufficiency of essential nutrients like folic acid augments the risk of developing neural tube defects.
• Other Risk Factors: It involves the habit of regular smoking, drug abuse, and environmental toxins exposure. Maternal age (35 or older) is another contributing factor to birth defects. 

Symptoms of Birth Defects

Symptoms of birth defects range from mild to severe and depend on their type and the defect severity. Here are some of the most common symptoms:

• Symptoms: Babies born with birth defects usually develop physical symptoms like unusual features on the face such as palate, or cleft lip. They also have limb anomalies like clubfoot, missing fingers, etc., including unusual growth patterns. 
• Functional Symptoms: Some babies develop functional inabilities, such as heart defects that cause breathing issues or blue skin, problems related to the nervous system that trigger seizures, or growth delays. 
• Developmental Symptoms: In developmental symptoms, babies with birth defects have issues like motor skills, delayed speech, or cognitive abilities, including learning and behavioral problems.

Preventive Measures for Birth Defects Prevention

Preventive measures that can help prevent birth defects are:

• Begin with a Preconception Consultation: Make sure to consult your doctor when trying to achieve pregnancy. Don’t overlook any existing health conditions, such as hypertension, diabetes, etc., to avoid pregnancy risks. 
• Folic Acid: Taking a daily dose of folic acid is crucial before and during pregnancy to avoid birth defects related to the spine and brain.
• Avoid Harmful Substances: Don’t consume alcohol, quit smoking, restrict caffeine intake, and avoid any medications, or get in touch with your doctor before taking them.
• Stay Updated on Vaccinations: Secure your baby and your health by staying updated on vaccinations, such as flu, COVID-19, rubella, etc., and taking them on time. This step can help avoid infections and defects in the child. 
• Healthy Lifestyle: Maintain a healthy lifestyle by eating a balanced diet rich in nutrition, such as fruits, veggies, and whole grains. Exercise regularly, at least 30 minutes a day, to maintain weight, and lastly, focus on managing stress through relaxation methods such as meditation or yoga. 
• Prevent Infections: It involves practicing proper hand hygiene, avoiding direct contact with undercooked food items, and avoiding people with infectious diseases. 

Does Health Insurance Play Any Role in Birth Defects Prevention?

Preventive care during pregnancy often involves routine tests, check-ups, and procedures that can quickly become expensive without proper health insurance. Here’s why dedicated health insurance matters:

• Covers Prenatal Screenings: Health insurance policy for pregnancy usually covers important prenatal tests, like ultrasounds and blood tests, that identify possible risks.
• Provides Access to Specialists: Health insurance offers access to experts if complications occur, easing the financial burden.
• Includes Newborn Care: Maternity Health Insurance offers coverage for neonatal care, helping families manage treatment for any detected birth defects.

Final Words!

National Birth Defects Prevention Month reminds us that a healthy pregnancy is not just a mother’s responsibility but a community effort. By making informed choices, accessing quality healthcare, and spreading awareness, we can work towards a future where every child has a healthy beginning.

Additionally, investing in health insurance policies with trusted insurers like Care Health Insurance adds a layer of security, ensuring families are ready for any challenges that come their way. So, let’s take proactive steps today to protect the promises of tomorrow.

>> Also Read: Birth Defects: Types & Cause

Disclaimer: The above information is for reference purposes only. Please refer to the official websites for more information.