January is National Birth Defects Prevention Awareness Month

WAUSAU, WI (OnFocus) – Every four and a half minutes, a baby is born with a birth defect in the United States. That means nearly 120,000 babies are affected each year, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

The CDC defines birth defects as structural changes present at birth that can affect almost any body part or parts (i.e. heart, brain, foot), as well as how the body looks, works, or both. Also called congenital anomalies, these conditions develop prenatally and may be identified before or at birth, or later in life.

“The best thing that mom can do is try to reduce the risk of these conditions by taking care of her own health, even before conception,” says Jennifer Enman-Bourgon, DO, Aspirus Regional Medical Director, Obstetrician and Gynecologist (OB/Gyn). “Managing her own conditions and adopting healthy behaviors early on offers baby a better chance at good health.”

The CDC, American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) recommend the following tips for a healthy mom and baby:

6. Folic acid: Folic acid is crucial because it can help prevent some major anomalies of the baby’s brain and spine, such as spina bifida. A daily vitamin with 400 micrograms (mcg) of folic acid is typically recommended at least one month before becoming pregnant and then continued throughout the pregnancy. However, Dr. Enman-Bourgon says “there are some conditions and medications that require a higher dose of folic acid, so make sure to see your OB/Gyn for a preconception visit to ensure you know the appropriate dose for you.”
7. Preconception care: Having a preconception consultation with an OB/Gyn is very valuable to both the expectant-mother-to-be as well as the future child, as important topics such as vitamins & supplements, weight management and vaccines & immunities can be discussed and addressed before a child is conceived. It’s also important to see the provider regularly throughout pregnancy, so keep all your prenatal ​care appointments.
8. Proper nutrition: Eating a balanced diet that includes fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins, can help promote a healthy pregnancy. Note that many of these foods are high in natural folate (folic acid), but Dr. Enman-Bourgon recommends still taking the daily vitamin to ensure that you’re consistently getting the recommended amount.
9. Managing chronic conditions: Women with certain medical conditions such as diabetes, epilepsy, lupus, and asthma should work closely with their health care providers to manage these conditions before and during pregnancy.
10. Vaccinations: Vaccines help protect you and your developing baby against serious diseases. Talk with your provider about getting vaccinated against influenza and COVID-19, end ensure you have immunity to rubella and whooping cough.
11. Avoiding risky behaviors: Abstaining from alcohol, illicit drugs and smoking can help reduce the risk of congenital anomalies and other complications during pregnancy. Did you know that consuming unpasteurized dairy products and changing the cat’s dirty litter box can also put you at risk for serious bacterial infections?

“Above all else, be diligent about washing your hands,” adds Dr. Enman-Bourgon.

7. Genetic counseling: Before planning a pregnancy, and especially when there is a known family history of genetic disorders, seeking genetic counseling can be very helpful in identifying potential risks, and providing guidance on how to manage them. Visit www.aspirus.org/genetic-counseling-testing for more information about services offered at Aspirus.

It’s important to note that it is not always possible to prevent all congenital anomalies but following a healthy lifestyle and working closely with health care providers can help reduce the risk.

Dr. Enman-Bourgon sees patients at Aspirus Plover Clinic – Vern Holmes Drive. To schedule an appointment, call (715) 344-1600. To find an Aspirus OB/Gyn in your area, visit www.aspirus.org/find-a-provider.

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