National Birth Defects Prevention Month

Every 4 ½ minutes a baby is born with birth defects in the United States. Heart defects, Down syndrome, and cleft lip/palate are the most common birth defects.

Thankfully, there are simple ways to lower your risk of these abnormalities. Keep these tips in the front of your mind if you are pregnant, planning for pregnancy, or know someone who falls under either category:

• Start taking a daily prenatal vitamin now
• Don’t drink, smoke, or do drugs
• Talk to your doctor about questions or concerns you may have
• Take care of yourself by maintaining a healthy weight and exercising
• Wash your hands frequently to avoid infections
• Talk to your doctor about your family history

Birth defects make it more difficult for your baby to be healthy in the long run and can put your baby at a higher risk of death during their first year. You can dial 2-1-1 for Help Me Grow or you may text your ZIP code to 898211 to get professional help.