What you need to know about birth defects

When we are expecting to become a mother or a father, our greatest wish is to bring a healthy and fit child into this world. But sometimes, unexpectedly, children can be born with certain health problems at birth. In medical terms, we call this "birth defects". It is normal to feel scared and worried when we hear this word. But don't worry. This is a more common condition than we think. Let's talk about this in detail and with a sense of calm.

Simply put, what are these birth complications?

Birth defects are abnormal changes that occur in the development of a baby's body while it is still in the womb, during the embryonic stage. These changes can affect any part of the baby's body. Sometimes doctors can detect these during scans during pregnancy. Others can be detected after the baby is born. Some birth defects may not be visible to us until the baby is a little older. The important thing is that not all birth defects are visible to the outside.

These conditions can affect a child's life in many different ways. Some may only cause minor changes to the child's appearance, while others can affect the way the child thinks, moves, and performs daily activities.

What are the most common birth complications?

There are several common birth complications seen around the world. Let's take a look at what they are.

Is it correct to use the word "Birth Defect"?

Yes, this is a medically correct term. There is nothing wrong with using this word to describe a change in a child's body's development. But there is one important thing we should always remember.

If you feel uncomfortable using the term "congenital complication," you can also use a term like "congenital condition."

What could be the symptoms of this kind of situation?

Symptoms of a birth complication can range from very mild to severe.

This list is not complete. If you notice anything unusual or suspicious about your child, talk to your child's doctor immediately .

Why is this happening? What are the reasons for this?

This is a question that worries many parents. They wonder, "Why did this happen to our child?" In fact, it's hard to pinpoint just one reason. Sometimes, there can be a combination of several reasons.

But what we need to know is that 70% of all known birth complications have no clear, definitive cause . Most of them happen randomly. That means it's no one's fault.

There are several main categories of causes that have been identified:

1. Genetic factors

Simply put, the blueprint for how our bodies should develop is contained in our genes and chromosomes. Any changes to this blueprint can affect the development of a child.

• An increase in the number of chromosomes: An example is `(Down syndrome)`.
• Decreased number of chromosomes: An example is `(Turner syndrome)`.
• Parts of chromosomes are lost or attached to other places.

2. Some medications taken during pregnancy

Some medications can affect the developing baby in the womb. Therefore, if you are planning to become pregnant, or are already pregnant, it is important to talk to your doctor about any medications or vitamins you take. Do not stop or start any new medications without first asking your doctor.

3. Exposure to certain chemicals or drugs

• Drinking alcohol
• Tobacco or other drug use
• Exposure to certain pesticides or herbicides

4. Other complications during pregnancy

Sometimes, infections in the mother (e.g., Toxoplasmosis, Cytomegalovirus), or decreased fluid levels in the uterus can affect the baby's growth.

How do doctors diagnose these conditions?

A birth complication can be diagnosed during pregnancy, immediately after birth, or later. Various tests are used for this.

• During pregnancy: The first things you will do are scans and blood tests. These are called 'screening tests'. If these show that there is a risk, your doctor may recommend other tests to confirm the diagnosis. For example, things like ``Amniocentesis'' (testing a sample of fluid in the womb) or ``Chorionic villus sampling (CVS)'' (testing a small piece of the placenta).
• After the baby is born: If the doctor examines the baby and notices any abnormalities, he or she may perform further tests (e.g. blood tests, echo tests, X-rays) to confirm the diagnosis.

What are you doing as treatment?

Treatment options depend on the type and severity of the birth complication the baby has. Treatment is not the same for all conditions.

Commonly used treatments are:

• Surgery: Surgery is performed to correct a structural defect in the body (e.g., cleft palate, hole in the heart).
• Medication: Medication is given to control symptoms or manage the condition.
• Physical Therapy: Helps strengthen the child's muscles and improve mobility.
• Assistive devices: Hearing aids for hearing problems, wheelchairs for walking difficulties.
• Special Education Support: Providing support at school tailored to the child's learning needs.

Are there ways to prevent birth complications?

This is also a very important question. The truth is, most birth complications cannot be prevented , because we don't know exactly what causes them.

However, having a healthy pregnancy can reduce some of the risks.

• See your doctor regularly.
• If you are planning to get pregnant, take a vitamin containing 400 mcg of folic acid daily.
• See a doctor as soon as you suspect you are pregnant.
• Avoid alcohol and cigarettes completely.
• Talk to your doctor about any medications or supplements you are taking.

When to seek immediate medical advice (when to go to the ETU)

If your child shows one or more of the following symptoms, take him or her to the nearest hospital's Emergency Department (ETU) immediately.

• Difficulty breathing
• Skin turning blue, pale, or gray
• Yellowing of the whites of the eyes or skin
• Abnormally fast or slow heartbeat
• Difficulty waking the child up
• Complete refusal of milk drinks

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