Birth defects are structural or functional abnormalities that can occur during a baby’s development in the womb. They can affect almost any part of the body such as the heart, brain, spine, arms and legs. Birth defects may be present at birth or may develop later in life.
The cause of most birth defects is unknown and many are thought to be caused by a combination of genetic factors and environmental exposures such as illness or medication use during pregnancy. It is important to remember that most birth defects are not inherited from parents but rather happen spontaneously due to chance alone.
When caring for children with birth defects it is important for parents to seek support from medical professionals and other families who have gone through similar experiences. There are many resources available online and in local communities that provide helpful information on managing a child’s care needs, understanding their diagnosis, finding specialists and more.
It is also important for parents of children with birth defects to remember that their child’s condition does not define them nor limit their potential for success in life. With early intervention services such as physical therapy, speech therapy or occupational therapy they can develop skills needed to live an independent life full of possibilities regardless of their diagnosis.