The birth of a baby is not always free of complications. In some cases, the child could be diagnosed with a congenital malformation, and the cause can’t always be precisely established. From pregnancy and birth complications, to genetic malformations and viral infections, reasons are diverse.
Such unpleasant situations can sometimes be remedied if they are identified from the first moments in which they manifest. This is why, regular doctor visits, ever since the occurrence of the pregnancy, are essential. In this context, private medical insurance that enable access to the best doctors, is an essential instrument in detecting the disease and improving the life of the baby diagnosed as having a congenital malformation.
There is a series of malformations more frequently found in new-borns, such as:
- Congenital heart malformations appear when a part of the heart is not correctly developed. They are of several types, and their effects on the life of babies vary from light to extremely grave.
- The Down syndrome. This affection is caused by incorrect cellular division. Babies having this syndrome are born with 47 chromosomes instead of 46.
- Spina bifida is a malformation of the neural tube manifested through the incomplete closing of the spine around the spinal cord.
- Cerebral palsy cannot be diagnosed at birth and is usually associated with other afflictions, such as mental retardation or speech problems. It is manifested through the muscle damage and mobility issues.
- Hypothyroidism. In this affliction, the child’s thyroid is insufficiently developed or absent. The thyroid hormone is not sufficiently secreted, preventing the correct development of the organism and brain.
Studies show that almost 60% of these abnormalities have causes that can’t be precisely determined, but researchers speak of certain factors that could favour the occurrence of congenital malformations in new-borns. They can be maternal factors, such as age, life style, health or environmental factors, such as radiations or exposure to other toxic substances.
The prevention of such afflictions is almost impossible, but there are a few precautions that a future mother can take. One of this is a vaccine against certain diseases and taking the recommended dose of folic acid before the pregnancy. During her pregnancy, the mother needs to rest sufficiently, avoid smoking and have an adequate nutrition.
