Birth Defects

 

What causes the birth defects? 
Birth defects can be caused by certain genes or changes in genes. The genetic defect is inherited from either father or mother or result from sudden changes in genes called as mutations. It can also occur due to maternal exposure to drugs, chemicals, infection or radiation while the mother is pregnant or a combination of factors. However, in majority of cases (70%), the cause of birth defects is not known. Most mothers who give birth to babies with birth defects are healthy without major risk factors and have a normal pregnancy.