Birth Defects

What are birth defects?

Birth defects are health problems that affect babies while they are still in their mother’s womb. Some defects are minor and do not affect the child’s life much, while others can cause serious health problems. Birth defects can affect how a baby looks, how their organs work, and how they grow physically and mentally.

Most birth defects happen during the first three months of pregnancy, when a baby’s organs are still developing. Some defects are harmless and do not need treatment, but others may require medical care throughout life.

How common are birth defects in Africa?

Birth defects are a major but often ignored health issue in Africa. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), about 300,000 newborns die globally every year due to birth defects, and many of these deaths happen in Africa. The lack of access to quality healthcare, poor nutrition, infections, and environmental factors make African babies more vulnerable to birth defects.

For example:

  • Sickle cell disease, a serious blood disorder, is common among Africans. In Nigeria alone, about 150,000 babies are born with sickle cell disease each year.
  • Neural tube defects (such as spina bifida), which affect the spine and brain, are found more in African babies due to poor access to folic acid before and during pregnancy.
  • Cleft lip and palate, a condition where a baby is born with a gap in the lip or roof of the mouth, is also common in many African countries but can be corrected with surgery.

What causes birth defects?

Birth defects can happen due to different reasons. Some causes include:

  • Genetics (inherited factors): If a parent has a genetic disorder, it can be passed to the baby.
  • Mother’s lifestyle choices: Smoking, drinking alcohol, or using drugs during pregnancy increases the risk of birth defects.
  • Poor nutrition: Lack of essential nutrients like folic acid can cause defects, especially in the brain and spine.
  • Infections during pregnancy: Diseases like rubella (German measles), syphilis, or Zika virus can cause birth defects.
  • Harmful medications and chemicals: Some medicines taken during pregnancy can harm the baby. Pregnant women should always consult a doctor before taking any medicine.
  • Lack of proper medical care: Not visiting a hospital or clinic during pregnancy increases the risk of birth defects.

Sometimes, the exact cause of a birth defect is unknown.

Who is at risk of having a baby with a birth defect?

Any pregnant woman can have a baby with a birth defect, but the chances are higher if:

  • There is a family history of birth defects.
  • The mother smokes, drinks alcohol, or uses drugs.
  • The mother is 35 years or older.
  • The mother does not go for regular antenatal care (pregnancy check-ups).
  • The mother has untreated infections like syphilis, HIV, or malaria.
  • The mother takes certain medicines without a doctor’s advice.
  • The mother has health conditions like diabetes or high blood pressure.

Common types of birth defects?

Birth defects can be structural (affecting body parts) or functional (affecting how the body works). Some of the most common birth defects in Africa include:

Structural birth defects (affecting body parts)

  • Heart defects: The baby is born with an abnormal heart.
  • Cleft lip and palate: The baby has a gap in the lip or mouth.
  • Spina bifida: The spine does not develop properly, leading to disabilities.
  • Clubfoot: The feet are twisted and may make walking difficult.

Functional or developmental birth defects (affecting how the body works)

  • Sickle cell disease: A blood disorder that causes severe pain and infections.
  • Down syndrome: A genetic condition that causes intellectual and physical delays.
  • Cystic fibrosis: A disease that affects breathing and digestion.

Some birth defects may not be obvious at birth and can take months or years to be noticed.

How are birth defects diagnosed?

Birth defects can be found before or after birth through medical tests:

  • During pregnancy:
  • Ultrasound: A scan that checks the baby’s growth.
  • Blood tests: Can detect infections or genetic conditions.
  • Amniocentesis: A test where fluid from the womb is tested for abnormalities.
  • After birth:
  • Physical examination to check for visible defects.
  • Hearing and blood tests to detect hidden conditions.

However, not all birth defects can be detected early, and some are discovered later in life.

How are birth defects treated?

Treatment depends on the type and severity of the defect. Some common treatments include:

  • Medicines: Used to manage symptoms or correct conditions before birth.
  • Surgery: Corrects defects like cleft lip, heart problems, or spina bifida.
  • Therapy: Some children need speech therapy or physical therapy to help them develop properly.
  • Home care: Special care in feeding, bathing, and monitoring may be needed.

Some children with mild birth defects live normal lives, while others with severe defects may need lifelong support.

How can birth defects be prevented?

Not all birth defects can be prevented, but mothers can reduce the risk by:

  • Taking folic acid supplements before and during pregnancy to prevent brain and spine defects.
  • Avoiding alcohol, smoking, and drug use during pregnancy.
  • Eating healthy foods rich in vitamins and minerals.
  • Going for regular antenatal check-ups to monitor the baby’s growth.
  • Getting vaccinated against infections like rubella that can cause birth defects.
  • Managing existing medical conditions like diabetes properly.
  • Avoiding exposure to harmful chemicals and medications without a doctor’s advice.

Final advice?

Birth defects can affect any baby, but early detection and proper care can help. If you are pregnant or planning to have a baby, take your health seriously. Visit a health facility for antenatal care, eat well, and follow your doctor’s advice. Remember, a healthy mother means a healthy baby.

If you need more information, visit your nearest hospital, clinic, or family planning center for guidance.