How to Deal with Birth Defects?
Birth defects can have lifelong impacts on the health, development, and well-being of a baby. Fortunately, there are steps that parents and caregivers can take to help reduce the risk of birth defects.
1. Get pre-pregnancy care: Before you become pregnant, talk to your healthcare provider about any conditions or medications that increase your chances of having a baby with a birth defect. Your doctor may suggest pre-pregnancy tests such as genetic counseling, blood tests, or ultrasound imaging to determine if you’re at an increased risk of delivering a child with a birth defect.
2. Eat healthy foods: Eating healthy during pregnancy is important for both the mother’s and child’s health. Focus on foods like lean proteins, fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and low-fat dairy. Avoid foods that contain high amounts of sugar or salt, trans fats, and processed ingredients.
3. Take prenatal vitamins: Taking a daily prenatal vitamin with folic acid can help reduce the risk of neural tube defects like spina bifida. Folic acid is a type of B vitamin that helps the body form red blood cells and support growth in the baby’s brain and spinal cord. Talk to your doctor about which type of prenatal vitamin is best for you.
