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Birth Defects
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<div id="topic-summary" class="syndicate"><h3>What are birth defects?</h3>
<p>A birth defect is a problem that happens while a <a href="https://medlineplus.gov/fetalhealthanddevelopment.html">baby is developing</a> in the mother's body. Most birth defects happen during the first 3 months of pregnancy. One out of every 33 babies in the United States is born with a birth defect.</p>
<p>A birth defect may affect how the body looks, works, or both. Some birth defects like <a href="https://medlineplus.gov/cleftlipandpalate.html">cleft lip</a> or <a href="https://medlineplus.gov/neuraltubedefects.html">neural tube defects</a> are structural problems that can be easy to see. Others, like <a href="https://medlineplus.gov/heartdiseases.html">heart disease</a>, are found using special tests. Birth defects can range from mild to severe. How a birth defect affects a child's life depends mostly on which organ or body part is involved and how severe the defect is.</p>
<h3>What causes birth defects?</h3>
<p>For some birth defects, researchers know the cause. But for many birth defects, the exact cause is unknown. Researchers think that most birth defects are caused by a complex mix of factors, which can include:</p><ul>
<li><strong>Genetics.</strong> One or more genes might have a change or mutation that prevents them from working properly. For example, this happens in <a href="https://medlineplus.gov/fragilexsyndrome.html">Fragile X syndrome</a>. With some defects, a gene or part of the gene might be missing.</li>
<li><strong>Chromosomal problems.</strong> In some cases, a chromosome or part of a chromosome might be missing. This is what happens in <a href="https://medlineplus.gov/turnersyndrome.html">Turner syndrome</a>. In other cases, such as with <a href="https://medlineplus.gov/downsyndrome.html">Down syndrome</a>, the child has an extra chromosome. </li>
<li><strong>Exposures to <a href="https://medlineplus.gov/pregnancyandmedicines.html">medicines</a>, chemicals, or <a href="https://medlineplus.gov/reproductivehazards.html">other toxic substances</a>.</strong> For example, alcohol misuse can cause <a href="https://medlineplus.gov/fetalalcoholspectrumdisorders.html">fetal alcohol spectrum disorders</a>.</li>
<li><strong><a href="https://medlineplus.gov/infectionsandpregnancy.html">Infections during pregnancy</a>.</strong> For example, infection with <a href="https://medlineplus.gov/zikavirus.html">Zika virus</a> during pregnancy can cause a serious <a href="https://medlineplus.gov/brainmalformations.html">defect in the brain</a>.</li>
<li><strong>Lack of certain nutrients.</strong> Not getting enough <a href="https://medlineplus.gov/folicacid.html">folic acid</a> before and during pregnancy is a key factor in causing neural tube defects.</li>
</ul>
<h3>Who is at risk of having a baby with birth defects?</h3>
<p>Certain factors may increase the chances of having a baby with a birth defect, such as:</p><ul>
<li>Smoking, drinking alcohol, or taking certain "street" drugs <a href="https://medlineplus.gov/pregnancyandsubstanceuse.html">during pregnancy</a></li>
<li>Having certain medical conditions, such as <a href="https://medlineplus.gov/obesity.html">obesity</a> or uncontrolled <a href="https://medlineplus.gov/diabetes.html">diabetes</a>, before and during pregnancy</li>
<li>Taking certain medicines</li>
<li>Having someone in your family with a birth defect. To learn more about your risk of having a baby with a birth defect, you can talk with a <a href="https://medlineplus.gov/geneticcounseling.html">genetic counselor</a>,</li>
<li>Being an older mother, typically over the age of 34 years</li>
</ul>
<h3>How are birth defects diagnosed?</h3>
<p>Health care providers can diagnose some birth defects during pregnancy, using <a href="https://medlineplus.gov/prenataltesting.html">prenatal testing</a>. That's why it important to get regular <a href="https://medlineplus.gov/prenatalcare.html">prenatal care</a>.</p>
<p>Other birth defects may not be found until after the baby is born. Providers may find them through <a href="https://medlineplus.gov/newbornscreening.html">newborn screening</a>. Some defects, such as club foot, are obvious right away. Other times, the health care provider may not discover a defect until later in life, when the child has symptoms.</p>
<h3>What are the treatments for birth defects?</h3>
<p>Children with birth defects often need special care and treatments. Because the symptoms and problems caused by birth defects vary, the treatments also vary. Possible treatments may include surgery, medicines, <a href="https://medlineplus.gov/assistivedevices.html">assistive devices</a>, physical therapy, and speech therapy.</p>
<p>Often, children with birth defects need a variety of services and may need to see several specialists. The primary health care provider can coordinate the special care that the child needs.</p>
<h3>Can birth defects be prevented?</h3>
<p>Not all birth defects can be prevented. But there are things you can do before and during pregnancy to increase your chance of having a healthy baby:</p><ul>
<li>Start prenatal care as soon as you think you might be pregnant, and see your health care provider regularly during pregnancy</li>
<li>Get 400 micrograms (mcg) of folic acid every day. If possible, you should start taking it at least one month before you get pregnant.</li>
<li>Don't drink alcohol, smoke, or use "street" drugs</li>
<li>Talk to your health care provider about any medicines you are taking or thinking about taking. This includes prescription and over-the-counter medicines, as well as dietary or herbal supplements.</li>
<li>Learn how to prevent infections during pregnancy</li>
<li>If you have any medical conditions, try to get them under control before you get pregnant</li>
</ul>
<p class="attribution">Centers for Disease Control and Prevention</p></div>
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<ul class="bulletlist">
<li>
<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/birth-defects/screening/diagnosis.html" target="TheNewWin" data-sid="95943" >Diagnosis of Birth Defects</a>
<span class="desc-text">
<span class="orgs"> (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention)</span>
</span>
</li>
<li>
<a href="https://www.nichd.nih.gov/health/topics/congenital-anomalies/conditioninfo/diagnosed" target="TheNewWin" data-sid="108136" data-org="NICHD">How Do Health Care Providers Diagnose Congenital Anomalies?</a>
<span class="desc-text">
<img width="25" height="16" alt="From the National Institutes of Health" title="From the National Institutes of Health" src="https://medlineplus.gov/images/nih.png" class="imgdesc">
<img width="79" height="11" alt="Easy-to-Read" title="Easy-to-Read" src="https://medlineplus.gov/images/easyreadgreen.gif" class="imgdesc">
<span class="orgs"> (Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development)</span>
</span>
<span class="also-lang"> Also in <a target="TheNewWin2" href="https://espanol.nichd.nih.gov/salud/temas/birthdefects/informacion/diagnostican" data-sid="129031">Spanish</a> </span>
</li>
<li>
<a href="https://medlineplus.gov/lab-tests/karyotype-genetic-test/" data-sid="133197" data-org="NLM">Karyotype Genetic Test</a>
<span class="desc-text">
<img width="25" height="16" alt="From the National Institutes of Health" title="From the National Institutes of Health" src="https://medlineplus.gov/images/nih.png" class="imgdesc">
<span class="orgs"> (National Library of Medicine)</span>
</span>
<span class="also-lang"> Also in <a href="https://medlineplus.gov/spanish/pruebas-de-laboratorio/prueba-de-cariotipo/" data-sid="133250">Spanish</a> </span>
</li>
<li>
<a href="https://medlineplus.gov/newbornscreening.html" data-sid="58645" data-org="NLM">Newborn Screening: MedlinePlus Health Topic</a>
<span class="desc-text">
<img width="25" height="16" alt="From the National Institutes of Health" title="From the National Institutes of Health" src="https://medlineplus.gov/images/nih.png" class="imgdesc">
<span class="orgs"> (National Library of Medicine)</span>
</span>
<span class="also-lang"> Also in <a href="https://medlineplus.gov/spanish/newbornscreening.html" data-sid="61167">Spanish</a> </span>
</li>
<li>
<a href="https://medlineplus.gov/prenataltesting.html" data-sid="54251" data-org="NLM">Prenatal Testing: MedlinePlus Health Topic</a>
<span class="desc-text">
<img width="25" height="16" alt="From the National Institutes of Health" title="From the National Institutes of Health" src="https://medlineplus.gov/images/nih.png" class="imgdesc">
<span class="orgs"> (National Library of Medicine)</span>
</span>
<span class="also-lang"> Also in <a href="https://medlineplus.gov/spanish/prenataltesting.html" data-sid="95094">Spanish</a> </span>
</li>
</ul>
</div>
</div>
</section>
<a name="cat_93"></a>
<section id="cat_93_section">
<div class="section">
<div class="section-header">
<div class="section-title">
<h2>Prevention and Risk Factors
</h2>
</div>
<div class="section-button">
<button title="Expand/Collapse section" role="button" aria-controls="section" aria-pressed="true" type="submit">
<span class="icon icon-section-action"></span>
</button>
</div>
<div aria-live="polite" class="sm-live-area hide-offscreen"></div>
</div>
<div id="section93" class="section-body">
<ul class="bulletlist">
<li>
<a href="https://www.marchofdimes.org/find-support/blog/good-health-habits-and-birth-defects-prevention" target="TheNewWin" data-sid="18790" >Good Health Habits and Birth Defects Prevention</a>
<span class="desc-text">
<span class="orgs"> (March of Dimes Foundation)</span>
</span>
<span class="also-lang"> Also in <a target="TheNewWin2" href="https://nacersano.marchofdimes.org/complicaciones/defectos-de-nacimiento.aspx" data-sid="35520">Spanish</a> </span>
</li>
<li>
<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/birth-defects/prevention/" target="TheNewWin" data-sid="95883" >Preventing Birth Defects</a>
<span class="desc-text">
<span class="orgs"> (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention)</span>
</span>
</li>
<li>
<a href="https://www.acog.org/womens-health/faqs/reducing-risks-of-birth-defects" target="TheNewWin" data-sid="76866" >Reducing Risks of Birth Defects</a>
<span class="desc-text">
<span class="orgs"> (American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists)</span>
</span>
</li>
</ul>
</div>
</div>
</section>
<a name="cat_77"></a>
<section id="cat_77_section">
<div class="section">
<div class="section-header">
<div class="section-title">
<h2>Living With
</h2>
</div>
<div class="section-button">
<button title="Expand/Collapse section" role="button" aria-controls="section" aria-pressed="true" type="submit">
<span class="icon icon-section-action"></span>
</button>
</div>
<div aria-live="polite" class="sm-live-area hide-offscreen"></div>
</div>
<div id="section77" class="section-body">
<ul class="bulletlist">
<li>
<a href="https://kidshealth.org/en/parents/assistive-devices-positioners.html" target="TheNewWin" data-sid="160059" >Assistive Devices: Positioning Aids (Slideshow)</a>
<span class="desc-text">
<img width="79" height="11" alt="Easy-to-Read" title="Easy-to-Read" src="https://medlineplus.gov/images/easyreadgreen.gif" class="imgdesc">
<span class="orgs"> (Nemours Foundation)</span>
</span>
<span class="also-lang"> Also in <a target="TheNewWin2" href="https://kidshealth.org/es/parents/assistive-devices-positioners.html" data-sid="160060">Spanish</a> </span>
</li>
<li>
<a href="https://kidshealth.org/en/parents/baby-has-birth-defect.html" target="TheNewWin" data-sid="28129" >If Your Baby Has a Birth Defect</a>
<span class="desc-text">
<span class="orgs"> (Nemours Foundation)</span>
</span>
<span class="also-lang"> Also in <a target="TheNewWin2" href="https://kidshealth.org/es/parents/baby-has-birth-defect.html" data-sid="76844">Spanish</a> </span>
</li>
</ul>
</div>
</div>
</section>
<a name="cat_47"></a>
<section id="cat_47_section">
<div class="section">
<div class="section-header">
<div class="section-title">
<h2>Related Issues
</h2>
</div>
<div class="section-button">
<button title="Expand/Collapse section" role="button" aria-controls="section" aria-pressed="true" type="submit">
<span class="icon icon-section-action"></span>
</button>
</div>
<div aria-live="polite" class="sm-live-area hide-offscreen"></div>
</div>
<div id="section47" class="section-body">
<ul class="bulletlist">
<li>
<a href="https://www.marchofdimes.org/find-support/topics/pregnancy/isotretinoin-and-other-retinoids-during-pregnancy" target="TheNewWin" data-sid="11868" >Isotretinoin and Other Retinoids during Pregnancy</a>
<span class="desc-text">
<img width="20" height="16" alt="Video" title="Video" src="https://medlineplus.gov/images/videocamera.gif" class="imgdesc">
<span class="orgs"> (March of Dimes Foundation)</span>
</span>
<span class="also-lang"> Also in <a target="TheNewWin2" href="https://nacersano.marchofdimes.org/embarazo/accutane-y-otros-retinoides.aspx" data-sid="11308">Spanish</a> </span>
</li>
<li>
<a href="https://kidshealth.org/en/parents/nicu-caring.html" target="TheNewWin" data-sid="27962" >When Your Baby&#x27;s in the NICU (Neonatal Intensive Care Unit)</a>
<span class="desc-text">
<span class="orgs"> (Nemours Foundation)</span>
</span>
<span class="also-lang"> Also in <a target="TheNewWin2" href="https://kidshealth.org/es/parents/nicu-caring.html" data-sid="154307">Spanish</a> </span>
</li>
</ul>
</div>
</div>
</section>
<a name="cat_42"></a>
<section id="cat_42_section">
<div class="section">
<div class="section-header">
<div class="section-title">
<h2>Specifics
</h2>
</div>
<div class="section-button">
<button title="Expand/Collapse section" role="button" aria-controls="section" aria-pressed="true" type="submit">
<span class="icon icon-section-action"></span>
</button>
</div>
<div aria-live="polite" class="sm-live-area hide-offscreen"></div>
</div>
<div id="section42" class="section-body">
<ul class="bulletlist">
<li>
<a href="https://www.nei.nih.gov/learn-about-eye-health/eye-conditions-and-diseases/anophthalmia-and-microphthalmia" target="TheNewWin" data-sid="31934" data-org="NEI">Anophthalmia and Microphthalmia</a>
<span class="desc-text">
<img width="25" height="16" alt="From the National Institutes of Health" title="From the National Institutes of Health" src="https://medlineplus.gov/images/nih.png" class="imgdesc">
<span class="orgs"> (National Eye Institute)</span>
</span>
<span class="also-lang"> Also in <a target="TheNewWin2" href="https://www.nei.nih.gov/espanol/aprenda-sobre-la-salud-ocular/enfermedades-y-afecciones-de-los-ojos/anoftalmia-y-microftalmia" data-sid="162607">Spanish</a> </span>
</li>
<li>
<a href="https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/atypical-genitalia/symptoms-causes/syc-20369273?p=1" target="TheNewWin" data-sid="17446" >Atypical genitalia</a>
<span class="desc-text">
<span class="orgs"> (Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research)</span>
</span>
<span class="also-lang"> Also in <a target="TheNewWin2" href="https://www.mayoclinic.org/es/diseases-conditions/ambiguous-genitalia/symptoms-causes/syc-20369273?p=1" data-sid="151728">Spanish</a> </span>
</li>
<li>
<a href="https://www.fightingblindness.org/diseases/bardet-biedl-syndrome-bbs" target="TheNewWin" data-sid="17299" >Bardet-Biedl Syndrome</a>
<span class="desc-text">
<span class="orgs"> (Foundation Fighting Blindness)</span>
</span>
</li>
<li>
<a href="https://rarediseases.info.nih.gov/diseases/10147/bor-syndrome" target="TheNewWin" data-sid="101365" data-org="NIH">Branchio-oto-renal Syndrome</a>
<span class="desc-text">
<img width="25" height="16" alt="From the National Institutes of Health" title="From the National Institutes of Health" src="https://medlineplus.gov/images/nih.png" class="imgdesc">
<span class="orgs"> (Genetic and Rare Diseases Information Center)</span>
</span>
</li>
<li>
<a href="https://rarediseases.info.nih.gov/diseases/10027/campomelic-dysplasia/" target="TheNewWin" data-sid="126719" data-org="NIH">Campomelic dysplasia</a>
<span class="desc-text">
<img width="25" height="16" alt="From the National Institutes of Health" title="From the National Institutes of Health" src="https://medlineplus.gov/images/nih.png" class="imgdesc">
<span class="orgs"> (Genetic and Rare Diseases Information Center)</span>
</span>
<span class="also-lang"> Also in <a target="TheNewWin2" href="https://rarediseases.info.nih.gov/espanol/11882/displasia-campomelica/" data-sid="126718">Spanish</a> </span>
</li>
<li>
<a href="https://kidshealth.org/en/parents/center/clubfoot-center.html" target="TheNewWin" data-sid="160259" >Caring for Your Child with Clubfoot</a>
<span class="desc-text">
<span class="orgs"> (Nemours Foundation)</span>
</span>
</li>
<li>
<a href="https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/clubfoot/symptoms-causes/syc-20350860?p=1" target="TheNewWin" data-sid="63638" >Clubfoot</a>
<span class="desc-text">
<span class="orgs"> (Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research)</span>
</span>
</li>
<li>
<a href="https://familydoctor.org/condition/esophageal-atresia-and-tracheoesophageal-fistula/?adfree=true" target="TheNewWin" data-sid="4501" >Esophageal Atresia and Tracheoesophageal Fistula</a>
<span class="desc-text">
<span class="orgs"> (American Academy of Family Physicians)</span>
</span>
<span class="also-lang"> Also in <a target="TheNewWin2" href="https://es.familydoctor.org/condicion/atresia-esofagica-y-fistula-traqueoesofagica-es/?adfree=true" data-sid="51020">Spanish</a> </span>
</li>
<li>
<a href="https://kidshealth.org/en/parents/fetal-ab-cyst.html" target="TheNewWin" data-sid="161936" >Fetal Abdominal Cyst</a>
<span class="desc-text">
<span class="orgs"> (Nemours Foundation)</span>
</span>
<span class="also-lang"> Also in <a target="TheNewWin2" href="https://kidshealth.org/es/parents/fetal-ab-cyst.html" data-sid="161937">Spanish</a> </span>
</li>
<li>
<a href="https://kidshealth.org/en/parents/fetal-lung-mass.html" target="TheNewWin" data-sid="161942" >Fetal Lung Mass</a>
<span class="desc-text">
<span class="orgs"> (Nemours Foundation)</span>
</span>
<span class="also-lang"> Also in <a target="TheNewWin2" href="https://kidshealth.org/es/parents/fetal-lung-mass.html" data-sid="161943">Spanish</a> </span>
</li>
<li>
<a href="https://kidshealth.org/en/parents/fibular-hemimelia.html" target="TheNewWin" data-sid="161934" >Fibular Hemimelia</a>
<span class="desc-text">
<span class="orgs"> (Nemours Foundation)</span>
</span>
<span class="also-lang"> Also in <a target="TheNewWin2" href="https://kidshealth.org/es/parents/fibular-hemimelia.html" data-sid="161935">Spanish</a> </span>
</li>
<li>
<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/birth-defects/about/gastroschisis.html" target="TheNewWin" data-sid="95892" >Gastroschisis</a>
<span class="desc-text">
<span class="orgs"> (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention)</span>
</span>
<span class="also-lang"> Also in <a target="TheNewWin2" href="https://www.cdc.gov/birth-defects/es/about/gastrosquisis.html" data-sid="106367">Spanish</a> </span>
</li>
<li>
<a href="https://www.marchofdimes.org/find-support/topics/planning-baby/genital-and-urinary-tract-defects" target="TheNewWin" data-sid="25489" >Genital and Urinary Tract Defects</a>
<span class="desc-text">
<span class="orgs"> (March of Dimes Foundation)</span>
</span>
<span class="also-lang"> Also in <a target="TheNewWin2" href="https://nacersano.marchofdimes.org/complicaciones/defectos-del-tracto-genitourinario.aspx" data-sid="35525">Spanish</a> </span>
</li>
<li>
<a href="https://kidshealth.org/en/parents/hirschsprung.html" target="TheNewWin" data-sid="104918" >Hirschsprung Disease</a>
<span class="desc-text">
<span class="orgs"> (Nemours Foundation)</span>
</span>
<span class="also-lang"> Also in <a target="TheNewWin2" href="https://kidshealth.org/es/parents/hirschsprung.html" data-sid="104919">Spanish</a> </span>
</li>
<li>
<a href="https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/digestive-diseases/hirschsprung-disease" target="TheNewWin" data-sid="31289" data-org="NIDDK">Hirschsprung Disease</a>
<span class="desc-text">
<img width="25" height="16" alt="From the National Institutes of Health" title="From the National Institutes of Health" src="https://medlineplus.gov/images/nih.png" class="imgdesc">
<span class="orgs"> (National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases)</span>
</span>
</li>
<li>
<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/birth-defects/about/hypospadias.html" target="TheNewWin" data-sid="101475" >Hypospadias</a>
<span class="desc-text">
<span class="orgs"> (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention)</span>
</span>
<span class="also-lang"> Also in <a target="TheNewWin2" href="https://www.cdc.gov/birth-defects/es/about/hipospadias.html" data-sid="106368">Spanish</a> </span>
</li>
<li>
<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/birth-defects/about/limb-reduction-defects.html" target="TheNewWin" data-sid="95891" >Limb Reduction Defects</a>
<span class="desc-text">
<span class="orgs"> (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention)</span>
</span>
<span class="also-lang"> Also in <a target="TheNewWin2" href="https://www.cdc.gov/birth-defects/es/about/defectos-por-reduccion-de-extremidades.html" data-sid="106370">Spanish</a> </span>
</li>
<li>
<a href="https://rarediseases.info.nih.gov/diseases/8549/moebius-syndrome" target="TheNewWin" data-sid="162570" data-org="NIH">Mobius Syndrome</a>
<span class="desc-text">
<img width="25" height="16" alt="From the National Institutes of Health" title="From the National Institutes of Health" src="https://medlineplus.gov/images/nih.png" class="imgdesc">
<span class="orgs"> (Genetic and Rare Diseases Information Center)</span>
</span>
</li>
<li>
<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/birth-defects/about/omphalocele.html" target="TheNewWin" data-sid="95942" >Omphalocele</a>
<span class="desc-text">
<span class="orgs"> (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention)</span>
</span>
<span class="also-lang"> Also in <a target="TheNewWin2" href="https://www.cdc.gov/birth-defects/es/about/onfalocele.html" data-sid="106369">Spanish</a> </span>
</li>
<li>
<a href="https://kidshealth.org/en/parents/pierre-robin-syndrome.html" target="TheNewWin" data-sid="160264" >Pierre Robin Syndrome</a>
<span class="desc-text">
<span class="orgs"> (Nemours Foundation)</span>
</span>
<span class="also-lang"> Also in <a target="TheNewWin2" href="https://kidshealth.org/es/parents/pierre-robin-syndrome.html" data-sid="160265">Spanish</a> </span>
</li>
<li>
<a href="https://kidshealth.org/en/parents/gastroschisis_silo.html" target="TheNewWin" data-sid="154952" >Treating Gastroschisis (Gastroschisis Silo)</a>
<span class="desc-text">
<img width="20" height="16" alt="Video" title="Video" src="https://medlineplus.gov/images/videocamera.gif" class="imgdesc">
<span class="orgs"> (Nemours Foundation)</span>
</span>
</li>
<li>
<a href="https://kidshealth.org/en/parents/cryptorchidism.html" target="TheNewWin" data-sid="49396" >Undescended Testicles (Cryptorchidism) (For Parents)</a>
<span class="desc-text">
<span class="orgs"> (Nemours Foundation)</span>
</span>
<span class="also-lang"> Also in <a target="TheNewWin2" href="https://kidshealth.org/es/parents/cryptorchidism.html" data-sid="120160">Spanish</a> </span>
</li>
<li>
<a href="https://www.nichd.nih.gov/health/topics/congenital-anomalies/conditioninfo/types" target="TheNewWin" data-sid="108135" data-org="NICHD">What Are the Types of Congenital Anomalies?</a>
<span class="desc-text">
<img width="25" height="16" alt="From the National Institutes of Health" title="From the National Institutes of Health" src="https://medlineplus.gov/images/nih.png" class="imgdesc">
<span class="orgs"> (Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development)</span>
</span>
<span class="also-lang"> Also in <a target="TheNewWin2" href="https://espanol.nichd.nih.gov/salud/temas/birthdefects/informacion/tipos" data-sid="129032">Spanish</a> </span>
</li>
<li>
<a href="https://kidshealth.org/en/parents/williams-syndrome.html" target="TheNewWin" data-sid="160270" >Williams Syndrome (For Parents)</a>
<span class="desc-text">
<span class="orgs"> (Nemours Foundation)</span>
</span>
<span class="also-lang"> Also in <a target="TheNewWin2" href="https://kidshealth.org/es/parents/williams-syndrome.html" data-sid="160271">Spanish</a> </span>
</li>
</ul>
</div>
</div>
</section>
<a name="cat_79"></a>
<section id="cat_79_section">
<div class="section">
<div class="section-header">
<div class="section-title">
<h2>Statistics and Research
</h2>
</div>
<div class="section-button">
<button title="Expand/Collapse section" role="button" aria-controls="section" aria-pressed="true" type="submit">
<span class="icon icon-section-action"></span>
</button>
</div>
<div aria-live="polite" class="sm-live-area hide-offscreen"></div>
</div>
<div id="section79" class="section-body">
<ul class="bulletlist">
<li>
<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/birth-defects/tracking/" target="TheNewWin" data-sid="95890" >Birth Defects Tracking</a>
<span class="desc-text">
<span class="orgs"> (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention)</span>
</span>
</li>
<li>
<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/birth-defects/data-research/facts-stats/" target="TheNewWin" data-sid="95944" >Data and Statistics on Birth Defects</a>
<span class="desc-text">
<span class="orgs"> (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention)</span>
</span>
</li>
<li>
<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/nchs/fastats/birth-defects.htm" target="TheNewWin" data-sid="2414" >FastStats: Birth Defects or Congenital Anomalies</a>
<span class="desc-text">
<span class="orgs"> (National Center for Health Statistics)</span>
</span>
</li>
</ul>
</div>
</div>
</section>
<a name="cat_27"></a>
<section id="cat_27_section">
<div class="section">
<div class="section-header">
<div class="section-title">
<h2>Clinical Trials
</h2>
</div>
<div class="section-button">
<button title="Expand/Collapse section" role="button" aria-controls="section" aria-pressed="true" type="submit">
<span class="icon icon-section-action"></span>
</button>
</div>
<div aria-live="polite" class="sm-live-area hide-offscreen"></div>
</div>
<div id="section27" class="section-body">
<ul class="bulletlist">
<li>
<a href="https://clinicaltrials.gov/search?cond=%22Congenital+Abnormalities%22&amp;aggFilters=status:not%20rec" target="TheNewWin" data-sid="67209" data-org="NIH">ClinicalTrials.gov: Congenital Abnormalities</a>
<span class="desc-text">
<img width="25" height="16" alt="From the National Institutes of Health" title="From the National Institutes of Health" src="https://medlineplus.gov/images/nih.png" class="imgdesc">
<span class="orgs"> (National Institutes of Health)</span>
</span>
</li>
</ul>
</div>
</div>
</section>
<a name="cat_59"></a>
<section id="cat_59_section">
<div class="section">
<div class="section-header">
<div class="section-title">
<h2>Journal Articles
<span class="subheading">References and abstracts from MEDLINE/PubMed (National Library of Medicine)</span>
</h2>
</div>
<div class="section-button">
<button title="Expand/Collapse section" role="button" aria-controls="section" aria-pressed="true" type="submit">
<span class="icon icon-section-action"></span>
</button>
</div>
<div aria-live="polite" class="sm-live-area hide-offscreen"></div>
</div>
<div id="section59" class="section-body">
<ul class="bulletlist">
<li>
<a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/39817398" target="TheNewWin" data-sid="11478" >Article: Maternal mental disorders, psychotropic drugs, socioeconomic status, and offspring congenital anomalies.</a>
<span class="desc-text">
</span>
</li>
<li>
<a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/39812224" target="TheNewWin" data-sid="11478" >Article: Patterns of Co-Occurring Birth Defects in Chinese Infants With Congenital Diaphragmatic...</a>
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<a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/39799322" target="TheNewWin" data-sid="11478" >Article: Beliefs and perceptions towards congenital anomalies in Dilla town, Gedeo Zone,...</a>
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<a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/?term=%22Congenital+Abnormalities%22%5Bmajr%3Anoexp%5D+AND+humans%5Bmh%5D+AND+english%5Bla%5D+AND+%22last+1+Year%22+%5Bedat%5D+NOT+%28letter%5Bpt%5D+OR+case+reports%5Bpt%5D+OR+editorial%5Bpt%5D+OR+comment%5Bpt%5D%29+AND+free+full+text%5Bsb%5D+" target="TheNewWin" data-sid="11478" >Birth Defects -- see more articles</a>
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<a href="https://kidshealth.org/en/parents/campomelic-dysplasia.html" target="TheNewWin" data-sid="156802" >Campomelic Dysplasia (For Parents)</a>
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<span class="orgs"> (Nemours Foundation)</span>
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<span class="also-lang"> Also in <a target="TheNewWin2" href="https://kidshealth.org/es/parents/campomelic-dysplasia.html" data-sid="159210">Spanish</a> </span>
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<span class="orgs"> (Nemours Foundation)</span>
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<a href="https://kidshealth.org/en/parents/cryptotia.html" target="TheNewWin" data-sid="159957" >Cryptotia</a>
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<span class="orgs"> (Nemours Foundation)</span>
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<span class="also-lang"> Also in <a target="TheNewWin2" href="https://kidshealth.org/es/parents/cryptotia.html" data-sid="159958">Spanish</a> </span>
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<a href="https://kidshealth.org/en/parents/ear-canal-stenosis.html" target="TheNewWin" data-sid="159959" >Ear Canal Stenosis</a>
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<span class="orgs"> (Nemours Foundation)</span>
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<span class="also-lang"> Also in <a target="TheNewWin2" href="https://kidshealth.org/es/parents/microtia.html" data-sid="157330">Spanish</a> </span>
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<h2>MEDICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA</h2>
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<ul>
<li><a data-sid="82452" href="https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/001248.htm">Acrodysostosis</a></li>
<li><a data-sid="83100" href="https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/003573.htm">Alpha fetoprotein</a></li>
<li><a data-sid="82877" href="https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/003269.htm">Ambiguous genitalia</a></li>
<li><a data-sid="82405" href="https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/001579.htm">Amniotic constriction bands</a></li>
<li><a data-sid="82115" href="https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/001142.htm">Annular pancreas</a></li>
<li><a data-sid="81771" href="https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/001228.htm">Clubfoot</a></li>
<li><a data-sid="82979" href="https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/002964.htm">Clubfoot repair</a></li>
<li><a data-sid="97963" href="https://medlineplus.gov/ency/presentations/100056_1.htm">Clubfoot repair - series</a></li>
<li><a data-sid="83061" href="https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/002936.htm">Congenital diaphragmatic hernia repair</a></li>
<li><a data-sid="82579" href="https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/001497.htm">Developmental differences of the female genital tract</a></li>
</ul><ul class="more-links">
<li><a data-sid="82108" href="https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/001135.htm">Diaphragmatic hernia</a></li>
<li><a data-sid="97961" href="https://medlineplus.gov/ency/presentations/100014_1.htm">Diaphragmatic hernia repair - series</a></li>
<li><a data-sid="82438" href="https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/001669.htm">Differences of sex development</a></li>
<li><a data-sid="82105" href="https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/001131.htm">Duodenal atresia</a></li>
<li><a data-sid="83013" href="https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/001633.htm">Fusion of the ear bones</a></li>
<li><a data-sid="83034" href="https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/002924.htm">Gastroschisis repair</a></li>
<li><a data-sid="98014" href="https://medlineplus.gov/ency/presentations/100023_1.htm">Gastroschisis repair - series</a></li>
<li><a data-sid="82113" href="https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/001140.htm">Hirschsprung disease</a></li>
<li><a data-sid="82484" href="https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/001286.htm">Hypospadias</a></li>
<li><a data-sid="82939" href="https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/003000.htm">Hypospadias repair</a></li>
<li><a data-sid="83995" href="https://medlineplus.gov/ency/patientinstructions/000158.htm">Hypospadias repair - discharge</a></li>
<li><a data-sid="97965" href="https://medlineplus.gov/ency/presentations/100126_1.htm">Hypospadias repair - series</a></li>
<li><a data-sid="82120" href="https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/001147.htm">Imperforate anus</a></li>
<li><a data-sid="83036" href="https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/002926.htm">Imperforate anus repair</a></li>
<li><a data-sid="97942" href="https://medlineplus.gov/ency/presentations/100030_1.htm">Imperforate anus repair - series</a></li>
<li><a data-sid="83547" href="https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/003303.htm">Low-set ears and pinna abnormalities</a></li>
<li><a data-sid="83038" href="https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/002929.htm">Meckel diverticulectomy</a></li>
<li><a data-sid="81156" href="https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/000234.htm">Meckel diverticulum</a></li>
<li><a data-sid="97964" href="https://medlineplus.gov/ency/presentations/100092_1.htm">Meckel&#x27;s diverticulectomy - series</a></li>
<li><a data-sid="81826" href="https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/000994.htm">Omphalocele</a></li>
<li><a data-sid="83063" href="https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/002938.htm">Omphalocele repair</a></li>
<li><a data-sid="97962" href="https://medlineplus.gov/ency/presentations/100033_1.htm">Omphalocele repair - series</a></li>
<li><a data-sid="82875" href="https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/003267.htm">Polyhydramnios</a></li>
<li><a data-sid="82468" href="https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/001269.htm">Prune belly syndrome</a></li>
<li><a data-sid="83817" href="https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/007311.htm">Quadruple screen test</a></li>
<li><a data-sid="82511" href="https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/001660.htm">Trisomy 13</a></li>
<li><a data-sid="82512" href="https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/001661.htm">Trisomy 18</a></li>
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<h2>Related Health Topics</h2>
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<li><a href="https://medlineplus.gov/brainmalformations.html">Brain Malformations</a></li>
<li><a href="https://medlineplus.gov/chiarimalformation.html">Chiari Malformation</a></li>
<li><a href="https://medlineplus.gov/cleftlipandpalate.html">Cleft Lip and Palate</a></li>
<li><a href="https://medlineplus.gov/congenitalheartdefects.html">Congenital Heart Defects</a></li>
<li><a href="https://medlineplus.gov/craniofacialabnormalities.html">Craniofacial Abnormalities</a></li>
<li><a href="https://medlineplus.gov/fetalalcoholspectrumdisorders.html">Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders</a></li>
<li><a href="https://medlineplus.gov/fetalhealthanddevelopment.html">Fetal Health and Development</a></li>
<li><a href="https://medlineplus.gov/geneticbraindisorders.html">Genetic Brain Disorders</a></li>
<li><a href="https://medlineplus.gov/geneticdisorders.html">Genetic Disorders</a></li>
<li><a href="https://medlineplus.gov/genetictesting.html">Genetic Testing</a></li>
<li><a href="https://medlineplus.gov/neuraltubedefects.html">Neural Tube Defects</a></li>
<li><a href="https://medlineplus.gov/prenataltesting.html">Prenatal Testing</a></li>
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<a href="https://www.nichd.nih.gov/Pages/index.aspx" target="TheNewWin">Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development</a>
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"description": "A birth defect is a problem that happens while a baby is developing in the mother\u0027s body. \u000ALearn about the different types of birth defects, their treatments, and how some kinds can be prevented.",
"mainContentOfPage": "What are birth defects?\u000AA birth defect is a problem that happens while a baby is developing in the mother\u0027s body. Most birth defects happen during the first 3 months of pregnancy. One out of every 33 babies in the United States is born with a birth defect.\u000A\u000AA birth defect may affect how the body looks, works, or both. Some birth defects like cleft lip or neural tube defects are structural problems that can be easy to see. Others, like heart disease, are found using special tests. Birth defects can range from mild to severe. How a birth defect affects a child\u0027s life depends mostly on which organ or body part is involved and how severe the defect is.\u000A\u000AWhat causes birth defects?\u000AFor some birth defects, researchers know the cause. But for many birth defects, the exact cause is unknown. Researchers think that most birth defects are caused by a complex mix of factors, which can include:\u000AGenetics. One or more genes might have a change or mutation that prevents them from working properly. For example, this happens in Fragile X syndrome. With some defects, a gene or part of the gene might be missing. \u000AChromosomal problems. In some cases, a chromosome or part of a chromosome might be missing. This is what happens in Turner syndrome. In other cases, such as with Down syndrome, the child has an extra chromosome. \u000AExposures to medicines, chemicals, or other toxic substances. For example, alcohol misuse can cause fetal alcohol spectrum disorders. \u000AInfections during pregnancy. For example, infection with Zika virus during pregnancy can cause a serious defect in the brain. \u000ALack of certain nutrients. Not getting enough folic acid before and during pregnancy is a key factor in causing neural tube defects. \u000A\u000A\u000AWho is at risk of having a baby with birth defects?\u000ACertain factors may increase the chances of having a baby with a birth defect, such as:\u000ASmoking, drinking alcohol, or taking certain \u0022street\u0022 drugs during pregnancy\u000AHaving certain medical conditions, such as obesity or uncontrolled diabetes, before and during pregnancy\u000ATaking certain medicines\u000AHaving someone in your family with a birth defect. To learn more about your risk of having a baby with a birth defect, you can talk with a genetic counselor,\u000ABeing an older mother, typically over the age of 34 years\u000A\u000A\u000AHow are birth defects diagnosed?\u000AHealth care providers can diagnose some birth defects during pregnancy, using prenatal testing. That\u0027s why it important to get regular prenatal care. \u000A\u000AOther birth defects may not be found until after the baby is born. Providers may find them through newborn screening. Some defects, such as club foot, are obvious right away. Other times, the health care provider may not discover a defect until later in life, when the child has symptoms. \u000A\u000AWhat are the treatments for birth defects?\u000AChildren with birth defects often need special care and treatments. Because the symptoms and problems caused by birth defects vary, the treatments also vary. Possible treatments may include surgery, medicines, assistive devices, physical therapy, and speech therapy. \u000A\u000AOften, children with birth defects need a variety of services and may need to see several specialists. The primary health care provider can coordinate the special care that the child needs.\u000A\u000ACan birth defects be prevented?\u000ANot all birth defects can be prevented. But there are things you can do before and during pregnancy to increase your chance of having a healthy baby:\u000AStart prenatal care as soon as you think you might be pregnant, and see your health care provider regularly during pregnancy\u000AGet 400 micrograms (mcg) of folic acid every day. If possible, you should start taking it at least one month before you get pregnant.\u000ADon\u0027t drink alcohol, smoke, or use \u0022street\u0022 drugs\u000ATalk to your health care provider about any medicines you are taking or thinking about taking. This includes prescription and over\u002Dthe\u002Dcounter medicines, as well as dietary or herbal supplements. \u000ALearn how to prevent infections during pregnancy\u000AIf you have any medical conditions, try to get them under control before you get pregnant\u000A\u000A\u000ACenters for Disease Control and Prevention",
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