Birth Injury Attorneys

Birth Defect Prevention Starts Before Conception

A birth defect is probably a parent’s worst nightmare. The child that you have cared for and carried in the womb for the last nine months now has complications with its health. The devastation and torment that a family must endure in order get to through such a challenge is quite compelling. But not everyone has to go through that kind of intense pain.

There are things that can be done to minimize the risk that your baby will have a defect once it is born. The success rate hinges upon proper preplanning and preparation, because ensuring the utmost health in your baby starts before conception.

• Women Should take Folic Acid Supplements
  Researchers have found a link between insufficient amounts of folate and specific neural tube defects. In order to prevent a dearth in folate molecules, women should begin a regular folic acid regimen at least three months before conception.
• Consult with a Doctor Before Conceiving
  Meeting with a pregnancy specialist before conception is another good way to prevent birth defects. The physician will be able to design an individualized pre-pregnancy care program for the woman.
• Get Genetic Counseling
  Genetic counseling is a good way to check for any defect that might be lingering in your family history. A geneticist would also be able to tell you the chances that some of these defects might be passed along to your child.
• Screen for Human Papillomavirus (HPV)
  Though it hasn’t been directly linked to a particular defect, HPV can actually cause preterm labor that can affect that baby in many ways, from serious brain to serious lung damage.

Throughout the process, make sure that you choose professionals that you can trust, because many of the birth defects that occur are cause by doctor negligence and could have been prevented.

If your child has suffered due to doctor negligence, call the birth injury lawyers of Williams Kherkher at 866.950.9000.