About 150,000 children in the Unites states are born with birth defects. Not all birth defects can be prevented but a woman can increase her chances of having a healthy baby. This can be done by adopting healthy habits and managing underling medical conditions before getting pregnant. It is important to note that most birth defects occur very  early in pregnancy, even before the woman knows she is pregnant.

Tips that can be used to prevent birth defects.

Preconception health : It is essential to eat a healthy balanced diet and manage all pre- existing medical conditions. It is also recommended to take 400 mcg of folic acid at least a month before and during pregnancy to prevent major birth defects such as spina bifida.

Avoid bad lifestyle habits : If you are planning on getting pregnant, you need to quite habits that would harm your baby. You should avoid

• alcohol
• street drugs
• tobacco

Prevent infections : Some infections you get during pregnancy can cause harm to your unborn child. You may take the following steps to reduce your risk of infections.

• practice good personal hygiene such as washing your hands thoroughly with soap and warm water
• stay away from people with infections
• cook food like meat  and egg  until they are  well done

Seek  genetic counseling and birth defect screening : If you are older than 35 years  or have a family history of birth defects, you may want to seek genetic counseling and birth defect screening to  find out your risks and weigh your options.

Be up to date with vaccinations : Most vaccines are safe during pregnancy. These vaccines protect the mother from infections that may cause  birth defects in the unborn child. Talk to your doctor about vaccinations recommended during pregnancy.

Maintain a healthy weight : Obesity increases a woman’s risk for complications and birth defects. If you are overweight , seek help from your doctor about ways to reach a healthy weight before getting pregnant.

Beware of medications : You need to talk to your doctor before you take ANY medication during pregnancy. If you are pregnant or trying to get pregnant, talk to your doctor about any medication you are taking or medications you need to avoid during pregnancy. These include prescription and over-the-counter medications and dietary or herbal products. Some medications cause serious birth defects during pregnancy.

Keep diabetes under control : Managing diabetes is essential during pregnancy. Diabetes  increases your chance for birth defects and other health problems for your baby. You need to take control of your diabetes before and during pregnancy to avoid these heath issues.

See your doctor regularly : You should  see your doctor if you are planning on getting pregnant. You also need to  start prenatal care as soon as you realize you are pregnant and try to keep all your appointment throughout pregnancy.