Some Disabilities are Preventable

You can prevent some disabilities with healthy life choices. Giving your child the best possible start in life is an important way you can prevent disabilities. Appropriate prenatal care and early childhood health care are key to prevention of disabilities. Some birth defects in pregnancy are associated with developmental delays, emotional and behavioral problems, and learning disabilities. Fortunately, many common birth defects are preventable:

• Ideally, before you become pregnant, make lifestyle changes that will promote a healthy pregnancy and increase the chances of having a healthy baby while reducing risk of learning disabilities;
• Follow up on your physical examinations before and during pregnancy.
• Tell your doctor you are planning to have a child, and ask for specific advice on ways you can improve your health to prepare. Losing excess weight, implementing an appropriate exercise program, and eliminating unhealthy habits are examples;
• Discuss any current medications you are taking with your doctor and determine the risks vs benefits of continuing medications during pregnancy. Many drugs do pass through the uterus and are believed to affect child development. Paxil, a common antidepressant, is just one of many medications linked to heart defects in infants as have several common pain relievers.
• Discuss important dietary needs, such as taking Folate supplements to reduce risk of defects with your doctor;
• If you have concerns during your pregnancy, share them with your doctor; and
• Share your complete medical history with your doctor and let her know of any family history of medical issues to enable her to advise you appropriately. Genetic counseling is often helpful for prospective parents.