January is National Birth Defects Awareness Month, a time dedicated to increasing awareness about conditions that can affect babies before or at birth. While many birth defects have no clear cause, understanding risks, prevention strategies and early care can help increase the chances of having a healthy baby. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), one in every 33 babies in the United States is born with a birth defect each year. These conditions range from mild to severe and can impact a baby’s organs, limbs, development or senses.
Birth defects fall into two main categories: structural and developmental. Structural anomalies include conditions such as congenital heart defects, cleft lip and palate, and spina bifida, a neural tube defect that occurs when the spine does not form properly. Other structural issues, such as limb reduction, affect the size or presence of limbs, while stomach and abdominal conditions such as gastroschisis or omphalocele require immediate medical attention. Developmental anomalies, on the other hand, affect cognitive and physical growth and can include Down syndrome, cerebral palsy, muscular dystrophy, hearing or visual impairments, and fetal alcohol spectrum disorders.
While not all birth defects can be prevented, there are steps an expectant mother can take to reduce the risk. Taking folic acid before and during pregnancy helps prevent neural tube defects, and regular prenatal care ensures that any concerns are identified early. Managing pre-existing health conditions, such as diabetes or obesity, is equally important, as is avoiding harmful substances like alcohol, tobacco, marijuana, and drugs. “In addition, some prescription drugs can cause birth defects. It’s important to go over all medications and supplements with your doctor to evaluate if any may need to be stopped or substituted during pregnancy,” said Dr. Kimberly Ballard, obstetrician/gynecologist on the active medical staff at Blount Memorial Hospital.
Staying up to date on vaccines can help minimize risks, as well. “Regarding vaccines, immunity to rubella is something that can be verified prior to becoming pregnant. Rubella is a kind of measles. If a woman chooses to get the rubella vaccine, she should wait at least 30 days before trying to conceive. Infants exposed to rubella during pregnancy can have abnormalities such as hearing loss, heart defects or cataracts,” Ballard explained.
Advancements in medical technology have improved early detection and treatment of birth defects. Prenatal screenings evaluate a baby’s risk for certain anomalies, while routine newborn screenings after birth can identify conditions that require prompt care. Families with genetic concerns also may consider genetic counseling to better understand risks and available options. Thanks to advancements in medical technology, treatment and follow-up care have improved outcomes, leading to a 10 percent decline in infant deaths due to birth defects between 2003 and 2017.
Birth Defects Awareness Month serves as a reminder of the importance of early prevention and care. While every pregnancy carries some risk, proactive steps such as managing health conditions, avoiding harmful exposures, and seeking regular care can make a significant difference. For parents, staying informed and working with their healthcare providers is key to ensuring a healthy start for little ones.
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