Understanding and managing birth defects can be challenging. This page provides information and resources to help individuals and families understand birth defects and other conditions identified in early childhood. You can find information about birth defects, their causes, and links to support resources.
A Note on Language
‘Birth defect’ is a medical term, but it does not mean that someone is defective. It describes the health conditions that happen before a baby is born. We use specific condition names, when possible, to be clear and respectful on this page and in our informational materials.
Birth defects can range from mild to severe. The health outcomes and life expectancy of a baby with birth defects depend on the body part involved and the nature of the defect.
What are Birth Defects?
Birth defects are structural changes present at birth that can impact almost any part of the body, such as the heart, brain, or feet. These changes can affect both physical appearance and body functions.
When Do Birth Defects Happen?
They can develop at any stage of pregnancy, although most happen within the first 3 months when the baby's organs are forming. Others may develop later during pregnancy as tissues and organs grow.
How Common Are They?
Every year, 1 in every 33 babies in the U.S. is born with a birth defect. These defects are also the leading cause of infant deaths, accounting for 1 in 5 of all infant deaths.
What Are the Risk Factors?
Many risk factors can lead to birth defects, though the exact causes often remain unclear. These defects often happen due to a mix of genetics, behaviors, and environmental factors. It is not fully understood how these factors cause birth defects.
A baby can be born with a birth defect even if there are no known risk factors. At the same time, having risk factors does not mean a baby will have a birth defect. It is important to talk to your health care provider about any risks. Following their advice may help reduce your baby’s risk of a birth defect.
Here are some well-known risk factors:
- Smoking, drinking alcohol, or using harmful substances during pregnancy.
- Having medical conditions like uncontrolled diabetes.
- Taking medications like isotretinoin (Accutane) for acne.
- A family history of birth defects.
- Getting infections like cytomegalovirus (CMV) or the Zika virus during pregnancy.
- Having a fever higher than 101°F or having an increased body temperature.
- The birth parent’s age, being a younger parent for some conditions or older for others.
What You Can Do: Prevention, Screening, and Support
You can take steps before and during pregnancy to help you and your baby be as healthy as you can be.
Things You Can Do Before Becoming Pregnant
- Take folic acid
A daily supplement with 400 mcg of folic acid can help prevent major birth defects in the baby's brain and spine. - Meet with your health care provider
Get a checkup to manage any medical conditions and review your current medications. - Avoid smoking, drinking alcohol, and drugs
If possible, avoid or limit coming to contact with these substances at home and work. - Stay updated on vaccines
Things You Can Do During Pregnancy
Taking care of your overall health during pregnancy is one of the best ways to care for your baby. Here are a few others to consider:
- Eat a balanced diet
Focus on foods rich in nutrients and avoid raw or undercooked foods that may carry bacteria. - Manage health conditions
Talk to your provider about managing any medical conditions like high blood pressure or diabetes to discuss ways to keep them under control. Check with them about medicines you take, and before starting or stopping any medicine. - Regular prenatal visits with your provider
Prenatal visits with your provider are an important way to help track your baby's growth. - Prenatal screenings
These are tests and screenings to check for certain birth defects and genetic conditions. Blood tests and ultrasounds check a baby’s development, non-invasive prenatal testing (NIPT) checks for conditions like Down syndrome or other chromosomal abnormalities. Depending on the results, your health care provider may suggest further testing for more detailed information. - Avoid harmful chemicals
Avoid contact with harmful chemicals, including pesticides and certain household cleaning products, such as ammonia-based cleaning products. - Limit caffeine
Keep your caffeine intake low, to one 12-ounce cup of coffee daily (or 200 milligrams of caffeine). High amounts of caffeine may increase the risk of miscarriage and birth defects. - Avoid harmful substances
Using nicotine-containing products (smoking cigarettes e-cigarettes, or vaping), drinking alcohol, and using illicit drugs can cause problems during pregnancy.
If Your Baby Has a Birth Defect
Early care and support can help if your baby is born with a birth defect.
- Get specialized care
Your pediatrician may refer you to specialists, including genetic counselors or surgeons, who can guide treatment plans. - Use early intervention services
Early therapy (physical, speech, or occupational) can help support your baby's development and health. - Connect with support groups
Join local or online communities where you can share experiences and find emotional support from other families facing similar challenges. - Work with a care team
Coordinating with healthcare providers, social workers, and community resources can ensure your baby gets the best care and support.
Building a Support System
Having a child with a birth defect can be stressful, but there are resources that can help you create a support system. You are part of a community that understands and supports you, helping you feel less overwhelmed.
- Create a care plan
Work with your and your child’s health care providers to make a care plan for your child. - Ask for help
Reach out to family, friends, or support groups to lighten the load. Getting professional counseling for emotional support can also help. - Focus on family well-being
Balancing family priorities and self-care can help reduce stress. - Stay informed
Keep learning about your child's condition and treatment options. Knowledge can help you make informed decisions and advocate for your child's needs.