Birth Defects: Causes, Risks, and What You Can Do

When a baby is born with a structural or functional problem that started before birth, it’s called a birth defect, a physical or biochemical abnormality present at birth that can affect how the body looks, works, or both. Also known as congenital anomalies, these conditions range from mild to life-threatening and can involve the heart, brain, spine, limbs, or organs.

Genetic disorders, changes in genes or chromosomes passed from parents to child are one major cause. Down syndrome, cystic fibrosis, and spina bifida are well-known examples. But genes aren’t the whole story. Prenatal care, the medical care a pregnant person gets before birth plays a huge role. Missing key vitamins like folic acid, smoking, drinking alcohol, or uncontrolled diabetes can increase the chance of problems. Even some medication safety during pregnancy, the careful use of drugs while pregnant to avoid harm to the developing baby — like certain antibiotics, antiseizure meds, or acne treatments — can raise risks if not monitored.

Not all birth defects can be prevented, but many can be caught early. Routine ultrasounds, blood tests, and genetic screenings help doctors spot issues before birth. And if you’re planning a pregnancy or just found out you’re pregnant, talking to your doctor about your meds, lifestyle, and family history isn’t just smart — it’s critical. You don’t need to panic, but you do need to be informed. Small choices now can make a big difference later.

Below, you’ll find real-world guides on medications that may affect pregnancy, how certain drugs interact with fetal development, and what alternatives exist for common conditions like high blood pressure, infections, or hormonal imbalances. These aren’t theoretical discussions — they’re based on patient experiences, clinical data, and current guidelines. Whether you’re trying to conceive, already pregnant, or just curious about how medicines impact early development, this collection gives you the facts without the fluff.