Birth defects are present at birth and are caused by genetic, environmental, or unknown factors. They may be present as a single problem (anomaly) or part of many problems (syndrome). Birth defects affect more than 3-6% babies in the Pakistan every year and pregnancies are affected with multiple birth defects (multiple anomalies) every year.
It’s important to understand the signs of birth defects during pregnancy so you can help your baby before, during, and after they are born. Here are some signs that indicate that your child may have been born with one or more birth defects during pregnancy
What is
birth defects during pregnancy?
Birth
defects are structural changes that occur while the baby is developing in the
womb. These changes can involve any part of the body, including the brain,
heart, and limbs. Birth defects can be mild or severe, and they may even be
life-threatening.
Some birth
defects can be prevented with early detection and treatment. However, not all
birth defects can be prevented. Chughtai lab is one of the best Labs in
Pakistan which offers online lab test facility to its customers.
Cranium
Defects
One common sign of a birth defect is an abnormality in the shape of the head or skull. This can be anything from a small indentation to a large opening. If you notice any changes in the shape of your baby's head, it's important to bring it up with your doctor right away.
Heart
Defects
One of the
most common types of birth defects is a heart defect. Signs that your baby may
have a heart defect include rapid breathing, bluish skin, and difficulty
feeding. If you notice any of these signs, be sure to mention them to your
doctor right away. Your doctor may order a chughtai test report to confirm the diagnosis.
Abdominal
Defects
There are a
number of abdominal defects that can occur during pregnancy. The most common
include gastroschisis, omphalocele, and diaphragmatic hernia. These defects can
be diagnosed prenatally with ultrasound. Chughtai lab in Lahore offers the best
online lab test in Pakistan.
Limb Defects
One common
sign of a birth defect is a limb defect. This can manifest itself in a number
of ways, including missing or deformed limbs. If you notice any abnormalities
with your baby's limbs, it's important to get them checked out by a doctor as
soon as possible.
Skeletal
System Defects
The most
common skeletal system defect is spina bifida, which is a birth defect in the
spinal column. The spinal column is made up of bones (vertebrae) that protect
the spinal cord. In spina bifida, the vertebrae do not form properly around the
spinal cord, leaving it exposed. This can cause serious problems, including
paralysis.
Bladder
and Urinary Tract Defects
Some common urinary
tract and bladder defects include:
- Hypospadias
(urethra opening on the underside of the penis)
- Epispadas
(urethra opening on the top side of the penis)
- Cryptorchidism
(undescended testicles)
- Vesicoureteral
reflux (urine flowing back up into the kidneys)
All of these
conditions can be diagnosed with a simple urine test.
Endocrine
System (Glands) Defects
The
endocrine system is responsible for producing hormones that regulate the body.
If there is a problem with the endocrine system, it can cause a variety of
problems, including birth defects.
Eye, Ear,
and Nose Related Birth Defects
There are a
few different types of eye, ear, and nose-related birth defects that can occur.
These include: microphthalmia (underdeveloped eyes), anophthalmia (absent
eyes), coloboma (a hole in the iris), cleft palate (an opening in the roof of
the mouth), and choanal atresia (a blockage in the nasal passages). Most of
these defects can be detected through a simple physical examination by your doctor.
Birth
Defect Syndromes
There are
many different types of birth defects, and some are more common than others.
Down syndrome is the most common chromosomal disorder, while neural tube
defects are the most common type of structural defect. Some other common
syndromes include congenital heart defects, cleft lip/palate, and spina bifida.