Birth Defects: Causes, Prevention, and What You Need to Know

When a baby is born with a birth defect, a structural or functional abnormality present at birth that can affect any part of the body. Also known as congenital anomalies, these conditions range from minor physical differences to serious medical issues that require immediate care. About 1 in 33 babies in the U.S. is born with one, according to the CDC — and many of these are preventable.

Genetic factors, inherited changes in DNA that can cause or increase risk for certain conditions like Down syndrome or spina bifida play a role in some cases. But environmental triggers, exposures during pregnancy like alcohol, certain medications, infections, or lack of folic acid are just as common — and often easier to control. For example, taking 400 micrograms of folic acid daily before and during early pregnancy can reduce neural tube defects by up to 70%. Smoking, drinking, or using unapproved drugs while pregnant can double or triple the risk of heart defects, cleft lip, or limb problems.

Not all birth defects show up at birth. Some, like hearing loss or metabolic disorders, are caught through newborn screening. Others, like heart defects, may need ultrasounds during pregnancy to detect. That’s why regular prenatal care, regular medical checkups during pregnancy that include screenings, blood tests, and ultrasounds to monitor fetal development matters so much. It’s not just about checking mom’s health — it’s about catching problems early, when interventions can help.

You won’t always know why a birth defect happened. Sometimes it’s a mix of genes and environment. But knowing the risks lets you take action. Talk to your doctor before getting pregnant. Review your medications — some common ones for acne, seizures, or depression can be risky. Get vaccinated. Avoid raw meat, unpasteurized cheese, and cat litter to prevent infections like toxoplasmosis. These aren’t just suggestions — they’re proven ways to lower the chance of serious problems.

The posts below cover real-world stories and science behind what causes these conditions, how medicines interact with pregnancy, what screening tools exist, and how families manage life after diagnosis. You’ll find clear answers about what’s preventable, what’s treatable, and what support is available — no jargon, no fluff, just what you need to know to make smarter choices for your health and your baby’s.