Tag: birth defects
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Zika Virus and Pregnancy: What You Need to Know
Read more Zika virus is a disease transmitted by mosquitoes and has been recognized as a global public health emergency by the World Health Organization. This concern is particularly relevant for pregnant women and those planning to conceive. Zika virus has been linked to potential birth defects, including microcephaly, which is characterized by abnormally small…
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Pesticides and Pregnancy: What You Should Know
Read more When it comes to pregnancy, being cautious is essential, especially regarding the use of pesticides. These products are designed with chemicals aimed at disrupting the nervous systems of pests, which can pose risks to your developing baby. During the first trimester, your baby’s nervous system is rapidly forming, making it particularly important to…
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Spina Bifida Test
Read more Spina bifida is a neural tube defect that occurs early in pregnancy, specifically during the first month, when the spinal column fails to develop or close completely. It impacts roughly 1,500 pregnancies annually in the U.S., with current statistics showing about 7 out of every 10,000 live births affected. Although the incidence seems…
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Understanding Birth Defects
Read more Birth defects, also known as congenital disorders, are conditions that are present at birth and can affect a baby’s overall health, development, and functioning. While the exact causes of many birth defects remain unclear, awareness and education play pivotal roles in preventing congenital disorders and genetic conditions during pregnancy. Common Types of Birth…
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Epilepsy and Pregnancy: What You Need to Know
Read more Epilepsy is a chronic neurological disorder characterized by unpredictable seizures, which occur due to abnormal electrical activity in the brain. Women living with epilepsy often have questions about how their condition may impact their pregnancy and the health of their baby. Recognizing Symptoms of Epilepsy During Pregnancy Many symptoms associated with epilepsy can…
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Understanding Birth Defects: Insights and Awareness
Read more Birth defects are significant health concerns that can arise during pregnancy, impacting the development of the baby. While the exact causes of many birth defects remain unknown, it is estimated that over 60% of these conditions cannot be pinpointed to specific factors. However, increasing awareness and education about these issues is crucial in…
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Chickenpox and Pregnancy: What You Need to Know
Read more When you become pregnant, your primary focus is to ensure your health and that of your baby. However, protecting yourself from every illness can be challenging. One such illness is chickenpox, a highly contagious viral infection that can pose serious risks during pregnancy. Thankfully, there are ways to safeguard both you and your…
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Spina Bifida: Causes, Signs & Prevention During Pregnancy
Read more Hey there friends! Let’s chat about spina bifida, a condition that’s one of the more common birth defects affecting babies. Don’t worry, though—there are ways to help reduce the risks during pregnancy, and we’ll go through that together. What is Spina Bifida? Spina bifida occurs when the neural tube, which is the precursor…
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Zika Virus and Pregnancy: What You Need to Know
Read more The topic of the Zika virus and its implications for pregnancy is a significant concern for women and healthcare professionals globally. Many individuals are curious about what Zika virus is, its symptoms, available treatments, prevention methods, and how it spreads. Understanding the Zika Virus Zika virus is responsible for causing Zika fever, an…
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Launching a Birth Defects Prevention Initiative
Read more Every year, around 150,000 children in the U.S. are born with one or more birth defects. While the causes of over 60% of these conditions remain unknown, there are proactive steps you can take as an employer to support your employees, clients, and the broader community in addressing this issue. Raising awareness and…