January is Birth Defects Prevention Month

Birth defects are common, costly and critical. Every 4½ minutes, a baby is born with a major birth defect.  Professionals, community groups and the public can act to reduce the risk of certain birth defects, detect those that occur as soon as possible and prevent secondary complications.

Heart defects are the most common birth defect and leading cause of birth defect related infant death.  While, most heart defects are not preventable, we encourage women to make a PACT for their own health and the family they may have one day.   All women, including teens, can lower their risk of having a baby born with a birth defect by following some basic health guidelines throughout their reproductive years.

Plan ahead

• Get as healthy as you can before you get pregnant
• Get 400 micrograms (mcg) of folic acid every day

Avoid harmful substances

• Avoid drinking alcohol and smoking
• Be careful with harmful exposures at work and home

Choose a healthy lifestyle

• Eat a healthy diet that includes fruits, vegetables, whole grains, low fat dairy, lean proteins, and healthy fats and oils
• Be physically active
• Work to get medical conditions like diabetes under control

Talk to your doctor

• Get a medical checkup
• Discuss all medications, both prescription and over-the-counter
• Talk about your family history

Women and their loved ones can participate in their PACT and take these important preventive steps that can lead to a reduction in the number of birth defects.