How to Prevent Birth Defects and Disorders

It is important to take right precautions while planning a pregnancy and during pregnancy to prevent birth defects and disorders. Read on to know how to prevent birth defects and disorders in an unborn baby.A birth defect is a complication that occurs in a child during pregnancy. In recent past thousands of infant deaths have been recorded due to birth defects and even though all birth defects cannot be prevented, many could be. A woman can increase her chances of having a healthy baby by keeping in mind few things before getting pregnant and during pregnancy as well.Awareness and knowledge can help prevent a large number of birth defects in children. Once the would-be parents are educated, they will take care and action to have a healthy pregnancy. Some of you might find some of the tips more challenging, but after all you are sacrificing them for your own child and for his life as well. In this articlePlan for the BabyIntake of Folic Acid Every DayStop DrinkingQuit SmokingNutritional FoodConsult Your ObstetricianSee Your Obstetrician RegularlyPrevent InfectionsVaccinationsTips to Get Ready for Healthy PregnancyFollow these tips to the ‘T’ to prevent birth defects and disorders and for having a healthy pregnancy.Plan for the BabyMost of the birth defects are said to develop during the first trimester of pregnancy. So, it is important you prepare your body for pregnancy in all possible ways. Stop taking oral contraceptive and opt for physical ones for few months before you get pregnant. You will also get time to quit bad habits like smoking and drinking also.Intake of Folic Acid Every DayIf you are planning and preparing for pregnancy, it is good to start taking a specific amount of folic acid daily. You can contact with an obstetrician so that you are best guided. Studies have shown folic acids supplements taken at least one month before pregnancy and during pregnancy helps prevent some major birth defects in children.Stop DrinkingStop your intake of alcohol right from the time you have planned for getting pregnant. Although there has been no direct or apparent effect of alcohol in a pregnant woman, it is better to avoid it because when you drink, the alcohol passes to the baby through placenta.Quit SmokingIt has been proved that smoking has extremely bad effects on the foetus and many birth defects like cleft lip or cleft palate including birth deaths and premature birth are due to smoking. It is better to quit smoking before getting pregnant. But if you are already pregnant, you can quit and save your child from many problems as soon as possible.Nutritional FoodStart eating well balanced and nutritional food right from the time you have planned to get pregnant. Prepare your body well before conceiving on the other hand, if you are overweight, it is advisable you get into the right shape and maintain a normal weight for some time before conceiving.Consult Your ObstetricianIf you are above 35 years of age or you have family history of birth defects, it is better to consult your obstetrician before getting pregnant. Get your body thoroughly checked up at least once a year.See Your Obstetrician RegularlyOnce your pregnancy is confirmed, it is vital you keep track and do not miss any of your prenatal visits to your obstetrician. Make sure you follow the advice and guidelines of your obstetrician properly and keep him well informed about everything going on with you.Prevent InfectionsSome infections can be dangerous for you and harmful for your unborn baby. Get educated about these and take precautions so that you are saved from them.VaccinationsThere are some vaccinations that are safe during pregnancy and are recommended also to keep the woman and her baby healthy. But it is better you consult with your obstetrician about them.Pregnancy is exciting yet stressful. If you pay attention to do what you can to get ready for pregnancy, keep yourself healthy during pregnancy and give your child a healthy start, you will have peace of mind.What are the causes of birth defects and disorders? What precautions should be taken while planning a baby to prevent birth defects and disorders? How to prevent birth defects and disorders during pregnancy? Discuss here.