What Can You Do to Lower the Risk of Birth Defects?
So, you’ve decided you’re ready to grow your family. Maybe you just took your last birth control pill, had your IUD removed, or simply stopped your chosen method.Hopeful, emotional, and perhaps a bit overwhelming, it is an exciting moment. It can seem tough to know what matters most when there is so much advice available about pregnancy and fertility. Ultimately, though, most parents have the same straightforward objective: to provide the healthiest start for their child.
The good news? To lower the chance of birth abnormalities, there are doable, research-based actions you may take both before and throughout pregnancy. Consider them the foundation for your child's future well-being
Step 1: Schedule a Visit for Preconception
Make an appointment with your doctor for a preconception examination before attempting to conceive. Now is the moment to:
Examine your past medical records and any ongoing illnesses, such as high blood pressure or diabetes.
Review your prescriptions. While some are harmless, others must be avoided prior to pregnancy since they may result in birth abnormalities.
Make a plan for managing health issues. For example, good diabetes control before and during pregnancy lowers risk for birth defects.
That one appointment can set the stage for a much safer, smoother pregnancy.
Step 2: Stay Up to Date on Vaccines
Vaccinations protect both you and your baby. Make sure you’re current on:
MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) – rubella infections during pregnancy can cause serious birth defects.
Varicella (chickenpox) – if you never had it as a child, you’ll want immunity before pregnancy.
Flu shot – the flu can be more severe during pregnancy.
Think of vaccines as your baby’s earliest shield of protection, even before they’re born.
Step 3: Build a Healthy Lifestyle Foundation
Your body will do a lot of work over the next nine months — so it helps to start off strong.
Aim for a healthy weight. A BMI over 30 can raise the risk of complications and birth defects.
Move your body. Regular exercise before and during pregnancy supports overall health and lowers risks of diabetes and high blood pressure.
Fuel wisely. A balanced diet full of whole foods fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean protein keeps both you and your baby strong.
And here’s a big one: start taking a prenatal vitamin with at least 400 mcg of folic acid at least one month before trying to conceive. Folic acid helps prevent neural tube defects in your baby’s brain and spine.
Step 4: Be Careful with Heat and Fever
It’s not something people often think about, but high body temperature in early pregnancy can increase the risk of certain birth defects.
Skip hot pools, saunas, and hot yoga throughout your first trimester.
If you acquire a fever, treat it promptly with acetaminophen (Tylenol), which is safe in pregnancy.
Step 5: Avoid Substances That Increase Risk
Certain chemicals are directly connected to greater risks of birth abnormalities. The best step is to avoid them completely:
Alcohol: There’s no safe amount during pregnancy.
Tobacco: Smoking raises chances for birth abnormalities, low birth weight, and pregnancy problems.
If you’re battling to quit, remember you’re not alone – and support is out there. Whether it’s nicotine replacement, counseling, or specialized recovery programs, your doctor can help guide you to safe resources.
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