Infection control in pregnancy reduces risk of deformity – Experts
Maternal health experts have stated that infection control during pregnancy reduces the risks of babies being born with birth defects whether structural or functional anomalies.
According to the gynaecologists, congenital disorders also known as congenital anomalies could be prevented through vaccination, lifestyle modifications, and infection control during pregnancy.
Congenital disorders such as hearing defects, and holes in the heart, they noted are structural anomalies present at birth that could cause physical disability, intellectual and developmental disability, and other health problems.
The physicians said that congenital disorders linked to environmental factors such as maternal exposure to certain medications, chemicals, and alcohol, could be prevented, but genetic triggers, such as mutations, can’t be prevented.
Though not all these disorders can be treated, the experts underscored the importance of parents understanding these triggers to help protect their unborn babies.
The World Health Organisation report of February 27, 2023, an estimated 240,000 newborns die worldwide within 28 days of birth each year due to congenital disorders, which also lead to an additional 170,000 deaths among children aged one month to five years.
They noted that some congenital disorders could be prevented, emphasising that vaccination, adequate intake of folic acid and iodine through the fortification of staple foods or supplementation, and proper care before and during pregnancy are effective prevention methods.
Consultant Obstetrician and Gynaecologist at the Nnamdi Azikiwe University Teaching Hospital, Nnewi, Anambra State, Dr Chukwuneme Okpala, said that ensuring adequate prenatal care and monitoring foetal health, were crucial to preventing congenital disorders.
Okpala, who defined congenital disorders as those existing at or before birth, emphasised that promoting a healthy lifestyle before and during pregnancy, such as maintaining a balanced diet, avoiding harmful substances, and managing chronic conditions, can significantly reduce risks.
He highlighted the importance of vaccination in preventing infections that may lead to congenital anomalies, noting that early diagnosis and treatment can greatly improve outcomes and quality of life.
Okpala stated, “Disease prevention is crucial in preventing congenital disorders. Through vaccination, mothers can mitigate several diseases that pose risks to unborn babies.
“Lifestyle modifications can help prevent diabetes, which is known to increase the risk of congenital disorders in unborn infants. Regular check-ups are also vital for monitoring maternal and foetal health, allowing for the early detection of potential issues.
“Management of congenital disorders often requires a multidisciplinary approach, incorporating early intervention services, surgical options, and ongoing medical care tailored to the individual’s specific needs.”
He cautioned against the use of certain drugs, particularly recreational substances, before and during pregnancy, citing their high-risk factors, highlighted that congenital disorders can contribute to long-term disabilities, imposing a significant burden on individuals, families, healthcare systems, and societies, alarmingly that nine out of 10 children born with a serious congenital disorder are in low-and middle-income countries.
“As neonatal and under-5 mortality rates decline, congenital disorders account for a larger proportion of neonatal and under-5 deaths. The most common severe congenital disorders include heart defects, neural tube defects, and Down syndrome.
“While congenital disorders can arise from a combination of genetic, infectious, nutritional, or environmental factors, pinpointing the exact causes is often challenging,” the WHO added.
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