Birth Defect

5 Ways to Reduce Birth Defects

January 31, 2019 - by Rakesh Chopra MD - in Health

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There is no way to prevent all birth defects, but if you try these healthy tips before and during pregnancy you can reduce your risk:

Folic Acid: Be sure to take 400mcg of Folic acid everyday. Folic acid is important for healthy spine and brain development in baby. Take a vitamin that has 100% Folic acid and eat fortified foods.

Up-to-date vaccines and flu shot:  Vaccines help keep you and your child healthy. The flu shot and whooping cough vaccine can both be given during pregnancy.

Healthy pregnancy weight: Obesity increases the risk of several birth defects.  Focus on a  lifestyle that helps you maintain a healthy weight–nutrition and activity.

Avoid alcohol and other harmful substances:  There is no amount of alcohol, tobacco, drugs that are safe  during pregnancy.  

Visit your provider:  Schedule an appointment with your provider and discuss   any medications you’re taking to determine which ones are safe during  pregnancy.

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Rakesh Chopra MD

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