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The March of Dimes Global Report on Birth Defects indicates that approximately 7.9 million babies worldwide are born annually with serious birth defects, and 94% of these cases occur in low- and middle-income countries. Birth defects, though often overlooked, represent a critical public health challenge that demands global attention.
In this blog, we’ll explore birth defects, their types, symptoms, causes, risk factors, diagnostic tests and treatment options. We’ll also discuss the role of health insurance in providing financial security for families dealing with birth defects, ensuring they can access the care and support they need.
What are Birth Defects?
Birth defects, also known as congenital abnormalities, are structural or functional abnormalities present in a baby at birth. They can affect many body parts including the brain, heart, bones and other organs, and can range from mild to severe.
Types of Birth Defects
Some of the most common types of birth defects include;
Structural Defects
Structural defects involve physical abnormalities in the structure of the body. They can affect various body parts, including limbs, the heart, the stomach, and facial features. Examples of structural defects are;
- Cleft Lip/Palate: A gap or opening in the upper lip
- Spina Bifida: A neural tube defect where the spinal cord has not fully developed
- Congenital heart defects: Abnormalities in the heart’s structure such as holes or deformed heart valves.
Functional Defects
Functional defects primarily affect the functionality of organs or body systems rather than the physical structure of the body. They may not be immediately visible at birth but can significantly impact the child’s development. Common types of functional defects include;
- Down Syndrome : A genetic condition where an extra copy of chromosome 21 results in a total of 47 chromosomes(normally 46), affecting the brain and body functions.
- Cystic Fibrosis (CF) : A genetic disease that develops sticky and thick mucus in a baby’s organs, blocking and damaging them. Caused by mutations in the CFTR gene, this condition primarily affects the lungs, pancreas, and digestive system.
Developmental Defects
Developmental defects occur when a baby's organs don't develop properly during pregnancy due to factors like genetic mutations, extra or missing chromosomes, or exposure to harmful substances. Some common examples include neural tube defects and autism.
Symptoms of Birth Defects
The signs of birth defects can range from mild to severe. Some of the initial signs during pregnancy include;
- Low protein levels in the blood test
- Structural deformities in the internal organs of the fetus, such as the heart
- Excessive fluid behind the neck of the fetus during an ultrasound.
Some symptoms only start showing up after the birth of a child. The most common ones that can be seen in infants and toddlers include;
- Abnormal heart rhythm
- Shortness of breath
- Non-responsive to their names or loud noises
- Extreme irritability
- Breathing Problems
- Frequent Infections or Weak Immunity
- Deformed or missing limbs
- Unusual head shape or size
What are the Causes of Birth Defects?
While the cause of many birth defects remains unknown, researchers suggest they result from a combination of factors including;
- Genetic mutations: DNA alterations can significantly contribute to birth defects
- Chromosome abnormalities: Extra or missing chromosomes can result in birth defects such as Turner syndrome and Down syndrome.
- Exposure to harmful substances: Alcohol, medications, chemicals or other toxins can result in birth defects.
- Infections during pregnancy: These can cause inflammation in various parts of the body, including the placenta and uterus, affecting fetal organ development.
- Nutrient deficiencies: Not getting essential nutrients like iodine or folic acid during pregnancy can disrupt fetal development, resulting in defects in the brain, spine, or other organs.
Also Read: What are the Causes of Premature Birth?
Risk Factors for Birth Defects
Some environmental or health-related factors can increase your potential risk of having a child with a birth defect. These factors include;
- Obesity
- Diabetes
- A genetic condition that runs in your family
- If the age of a parent is above 37 years
- Certain medications
How are Birth Defects diagnosed?
Healthcare providers diagnose birth defects during pregnancy or after the birth when symptoms become apparent. Prenatal screening tests can help detect fetal abnormalities. These tests include;
Blood Screening
Blood screening tests measure protein levels in the mother’s blood. These proteins are produced by the developing baby or the placenta, and their abnormal levels can indicate a risk of a fetal chromosomal condition.
Ultrasound
Ultrasound is a valuable tool for detecting potential birth defects during pregnancy, allowing doctors to monitor the growth and organ development of the baby.
During the second trimester of pregnancy, screening tests are performed to analyse the anatomy of the fetus.
Serum Screen
A prenatal blood test that evaluates the risk of certain birth defects by measuring specific substances in the mother's blood.
Anomaly Ultrasound
Also known as a 20-week ultrasound, it monitors the development of fetal organs and body parts and can detect birth defects and anatomical abnormalities. It is performed between 18 to 22 weeks of pregnancy.
Note: Depending on the result of the screening tests, your healthcare provider will suggest more diagnostic tests.
Is there any Treatment for Birth Defects?
Your healthcare provider decides the treatment option depending on the result of diagnostic tests. These options are primarily focused on reducing the symptoms of the defects. Some commonly recommended treatment options include;
- Physical therapy
- Medications
- Surgery
Note: Children with birth defects require special care and treatment. If you’re looking for special care services for your children, it would be best to consult your healthcare provider.
How to Prevent Birth Defects During Pregnancy?
While birth defects are often unavoidable, several steps can be taken to promote healthy pregnancy, including;
- Take folic acid supplements while actively trying to conceive.
- Taking the recommended dose of prenatal vitamins regularly
- Completely avoiding alcohol, tobacco, and drugs
- Informing your health care provider about any medications or supplements.
- Maintaining a healthy weight during pregnancy reduces the chances of complications.
- If you have pre-existing conditions such as diabetes, maintaining proper blood sugar levels, following a balanced diet and avoiding medicines that could harm fetal development should be your priority.
- Attending prenatal visits regularly to ensure proper care of yourself and your baby.
- Although most vaccines are safe, studies suggest that certain live-virus vaccines can cause a potential risk to a growing fetus. Hence, such vaccines should be avoided.
Also Read: Which Foods Should Be Avoided During Pregnancy?
Gift Your Children the Love and Security They Deserve
Birth defects are complex and can affect both parents and children. If you’re the parent of a child with a birth defect, it’s important to understand the needs of your children so that you can help them in the best possible way. Consulting your healthcare providers and genetic counsellors can help you develop the best possible treatment plan for your children.
Learning that your child has a birth defect is an unfortunate reality that can weigh on you both emotionally and financially. However, health insurance plans in India offer a much-needed peace of mind on this part. Internal birth defects are covered under the policies.
At Care Health Insurance, we have a separate health plan for expecting mothers and newborns- JOY. It offers complete maternity coverage with numerous benefits, including pre and post-hospitalisation coverage, newborn baby and ambulance coverage and also the diagnosis and treatment costs of birth defects. Gift the greatest gift to your newborns with the JOY Maternity Insurance Plan.
Disclaimer: The above information is for reference purposes only. Kindly consult your general physician for verified medical advice. The health insurance benefits are subject to policy terms and conditions. Refer to your policy documents for more information.
