Why Do Birth Defects Occur?

The term birth defects refer to damage to an unborn fetus. These birth defects can be a direct result of several different factors combined, or just one specific factor. One of the most common reasons for birth defects are due to genetic disorders. This is caused by abnormalities in the parent's chromosomes. Sometimes, the child may have a recessive gene that is passed onto them from a parent. There are several different categories of genetic-related birth defects. Some examples include cystic fibrosis, down syndrome, hemophilia, Huntington disease, and muscular dystrophy, to name a few. There are some tests that can indicate whether or not a child will be born with a specific genetic birth defect, but there is a no one specific test that can determine all of them.

Quick Reference – Some simple questions and answers many parents have about birth defects
Top 5 Genetic Birth Defects – A list and information about 5 common genetic birth defects
List – A thorough list of genetically related birth defects
Genetic Disorders & Birth Defects – Thorough reference list of resources for genetic birth defects
Center for Birth Defects Research & Prevention – Organization dedicated to education about birth defects and how they can be prevented
National Birth Defects Prevention Network – Providing prevention, education, and support

Another serious factor that can cause birth defects includes the mother's behavior. Participating in things like drug use, consuming alcohol, and smoking can all have adverse and harmful effects on the fetus. Smoking cigarettes has historically been known to cause very dangerously low birth weight. Alcohol consumption can cause very serious damage to an unborn child including developmental delay, behavioral problems, or facial abnormalities, to name a few. Drug use by the mother can cause the fetus to be addicted to the same drug the mother has been using. It can also cause heart, liver, kidney, and other major organ problems before the child is even born.

Drinking While Pregnant – Information on how drinking while pregnant is dangerous for the fetus
Alcohol and Pregnancy – Important facts and information that all mothers to be should know
Smoking & Pregnancy – How smoking affects your unborn child
Tobacco Use & Pregnancy – Resource for mothers who smoke
Drug Use & Pregnancy – Statistics and information about drug use and pregnancy
Cocaine/Birth Defects – How cocaine use affects mother and unborn children

Environmental factors can also be a cause for birth defects. Any hazardous materials or chemicals found in water, the ground, food, or even every day household plastics can be a cause for concern. There have been many studies performed that indicate the environment can affect unborn babies. Radiation, chemical compounds, and even poor air quality can all cause birth defects. The types of defects vary, however, and can depend largely on the amount and severity of exposure to harmful elements that the mother experiences during the pregnancy. Even things like x-rays can cause blood and lung disorders in some cases. Cleft palate, skull or spine damage, and many other serious problems can occur in fetuses if the mother is over exposed.

Environmental Causes of Birth Defects – A list and description of common environmental causes of birth defects
Health and Environment – An in-depth analysis of birth defects and the role the environment can play
Gene-Environment Interaction – Some ways that the environment can interact with genetic birth defects, and how they're related
Genetic Birth Defects – Environmentally related and genetic related birth defect information

The health of the mother is also a factor in determining potential birth defects. If the mother does not eat properly, get enough sleep or exercise, the baby may experience some kind of birth defect. Recent studies show that folic acid plays a very important role in pregnancy. Women who are expecting should take a prenatal vitamin that has plenty of folic acid, or take folic acid supplements. A diet lacking this important nutrient can cause spina bifida, a neural tube defect in babies. Proper nutrition plays a very essential role in proper development of a baby's cell and tissue growth and development. Proper exercise can help prepare mothers for childbirth and helps to ensure the overall health of the child.

Folic Acid and Pregnancy – The role folic acid plays in ensuring healthy babies
Benefits of Folic Acid – More information on how folic acid can help newborns
Essential Nutrients – Some suggestions for pregnant women's diets and nutritional needs
Nutrition: Defense Against Birth Defects – A resource on how proper nutrition can prevent birth defects

Disclaimer: The information provided within this site is not meant to be a substitute for a medical doctor's opinion. This site is for informational purposes ONLY. Please check with your medical practitioner before any type of treatment or prevention method is started.