Congenital abnormalities or as commonly called birth defects are the leading cause of infant mortality worldwide. Affected children who survive infancy often struggle with lifelong physical and mental disabilities. These brutal abnormalities are genetic in most of the cases while others are caused by environmental factors, and some defects come into being due to combination of genetics and environmental factors.
But the question is can anything be done to limit frequency and impact of birth defects?
In some cases especially those that involve inherited conditions, unfortunately, the answer is no. However, in some instances, favorable prenatal environment and early treatment can prevent or at least reduce the phenotype related effects of birth defects.
Increasing Folic Acid Intake:
One of major birth defects is the spinal or brain deformation which has roots in the folic acid deficiency in mother. Deficiency in maternal folic acid level is directly associated with neural tube defects in developing embryos thus, when taken early in pregnancy, folic acid reduces the risk of birth defects of the brain and spinal cord.
Leafy greens, fresh fruits and nuts are best source of folic acid. You can find and consult with the best nutritionist in Karachi, Lahore and other main cities via Marham.pk to know more about healthy diet during pregnancy.
Reducing Sugar Intake:
The right prenatal nutrient balance is a key factor in the development of a healthy child. Although nutritional deficiencies have devastating impact on developmental stages of fetus but excess consumption of other substances, majorly sugar, also have a negative effect. For instance, gestational diabetes is a condition that can occur in pregnant women even if they have no prior history of diabetes. Gestational diabetes can pose grave risks for the infant, who might be born premature with a number of growth abnormalities and respiratory difficulties. So reduce your sugar intake and in some serious condition consult the best endocrinologist in Karachi, Lahore and other main cities via Marham.pk. An endocrinologist can help you live better with diabetes and also to prevent its associated complications.
Limiting Exposure to Teratogens:
A teratogen is any substance that is a known cause of birth defects by altering the natural womb environment. Whereas, a mutagen is the one who alters the genetic material of the cell; common examples include alcohol, cigarette smoke, certain medications, and numerous industrial chemicals. Stillbirth, low birth weight, and cleft lip and/or palate are major risks posed by exposure to these substances. To manage any sort of birth defects you can book an appointment online with the best pediatric surgeon in Karachi, Lahore or other main cities via Marham.pk, and enable your child to live a normal life.
Detection and Early Treatment:
Of course, many birth defects cannot be prevented but thankfully, screening and treatment methods can be implemented to avoid the complications of birth defects and increase possibilities of better quality life of affected child. Without early testing, a diagnosis of hearing loss might not occur until a child is two or three years old, resulting in delayed speech and language development. If you are see any signs of speech disorder in your children do not delay to consult the best speech therapist in Lahore, Karachi and other main cities of Pakistan via Marham.pk. Speech disorders if addressed earlier and handled professionally can be easily managed without affecting social and educational life of children.
Be cautious, coming life should be protected before birth and your little efforts can make it possible.