Jakarta –
Entering the world of pregnancy, of course mothers always hope for the best for the health and well-being of their little one. However, knowing more about the various risks of birth defects is a very important step.
As a loving mother, of course you want to understand all aspects related to your little one’s health, including the possibility of birth defects.
In this article, we will fully explore each risk point and provide in-depth insight so that mothers can better prepare themselves to provide the necessary support on their baby’s life journey.
The fetus is deformed in the womb
As a new mother, of course you want to understand all aspects related to the baby’s health, including the possibility of birth defects.
Birth defects can be divided into two main types, namely structural and functional abnormalities. Structural abnormalities involve problems in parts of the body, such as cleft lip, heart defects, clubfoot, and spina bifida. Meanwhile, functional disorders are related to problems with the body’s function or system in carrying out its duties.
According to data from the World Health Organization (WHO), around 1 in 33 babies worldwide experience birth defects. Every year, around 3.2 million babies are born with imperfect conditions. The Southeast Asia region alone contributes to 90,000 newborn deaths due to birth defects.
Let’s look at some examples of congenital abnormalities. Cleft lip, heart defects, clubfoot, and spina bifida are the types of structural abnormalities that may be encountered. This disorder can affect the baby’s health in various ways, depending on the organ or body part involved.
Meanwhile, functional disorders, such as autism and Down syndrome, are related to disturbances in the body’s functions or systems in carrying out their duties. This can often affect the development of your little one’s nervous system or brain.
Causes of fetal defects in the womb
It is important for mothers to have full awareness regarding birth defects. With better understanding, mothers can prepare themselves to provide the support needed for the fetus. Awareness can also play a key role in efforts to prevent and treat disorders early.
Understanding these factors in more detail can provide deeper insight. What are the causes?
1. Genetic factors
Genetic factors play a central role in determining potential birth defects. Genetic information inherited from both parents can influence the structure and function of the fetus’s body. Some genetic disorders can be inherited directly, increasing the risk of congenital defects.
2. Chromosome problems
Chromosomal problems can occur during egg or sperm formation. Genetic changes at the chromosomal level can cause abnormalities in the fetus. For example, down syndrome due to an excess of chromosome 21.
3. Poor diet
Research has shown that folic acid deficiency during pregnancy can increase the risk of neural tube defects, such as spina bifida. Folic acid is a B vitamin found in various foods, including green vegetables, nuts and citrus fruits.
Despite this, many women do not get enough folic acid from their diet alone, which is why it is recommended that pregnant women take a daily folic acid supplement. In this way, it can ensure sufficient folic acid needed to support normal development of the fetal neural tube, providing additional protection to reduce the risk of congenital abnormalities.
4. Infection
Infection during pregnancy can increase the risk of birth defects. For example, rubella infection can cause heart defects in the fetus. Managing health and avoiding exposure to infections during pregnancy are important preventive measures.
5. Medicines
Use of certain medications during pregnancy can affect fetal development. Before using medication, consult a doctor to ensure the safety of its use. Some medications, such as anti-seizure medications or certain medications for certain illnesses, can increase the risk of congenital defects.
6. Obesity
Obesity in pregnant women can increase the risk of birth defects in babies. Reporting from Health Shots, eating patterns that lead to obesity can contribute to various complications, including gestational diabetes and high blood pressure, which can affect the health of the fetus. Maintaining a healthy weight during pregnancy is very important.
7. Smoking and alcohol
Smoking and alcohol consumption during pregnancy can cause various health risks to the fetus. Harmful substances in cigarettes and alcohol can damage fetal development, increasing the risk of birth defects, such as heart defects or impaired brain development.
Illustration of a Pregnant Woman/ Photo: iStock/FatCamera
Risk of birth defects in the womb
Being aware of the various types of birth defects and their potential impacts can help you better understand your beloved child’s health journey. This is one of the things that can happen if the above causes are carried out continuously, such as poor diet. The following is a list of risks.
1. Birth defects of the nerves
Mothers, birth defects of the nerves can include conditions such as cerebral palsy and spina bifida. Cerebral palsy is associated with movement and posture disorders, while spina bifida involves abnormalities in the spine and spinal cord. A deep understanding of these two conditions is important so that mothers can provide appropriate support for your little one’s growth and development.
2. Birth defects on the face
Facial birth defects, such as a cleft lip, can affect a child’s speech function and nutrition. Treatment and surgery may be needed to correct this condition. Mothers need to understand the care and support steps needed to help their children overcome these challenges.
3. Birth defects in the brain
Hydrocephalus, a condition involving fluid buildup in the brain, can cause increased pressure and damage to brain tissue. Proper monitoring and care are essential to optimize the fetus’ quality of life. Mothers need to get comprehensive information about hydrocephalus and the treatment options available.
4. Birth defects of the lungs
Cystic fibrosis is a genetic condition that affects the function of the mucous glands and can cause problems with the lungs and digestive system. With in-depth understanding, mothers can take the necessary preventive and treatment steps to support fetal lung health.
5. Birth defects in the eyes
Birth defects of the eye involve various conditions such as congenital cataract, congenital glaucoma, retinopathy of prematurityand congenital dacryocystocele. Each condition requires a specific treatment approach, and you need to work closely with your medical team to ensure early detection and appropriate management.
Understanding the risk of birth defects is the first step to providing maximum attention and support for your little one.
With deeper knowledge, mothers can carry out the care and planning necessary to help their children face these challenges with love and attention. Hopefully it’s useful!
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2023-12-25 06:50:19
#alert #poor #diet #fetal #defects #womb
