Usually occurring during the first trimester, fetal abnormalities are complications that occur to the developing baby in the uterus. Being proactive and staying informed will help you minimize the chance of abnormalities occurring during this crucial time period of fetal development. To prevent fetal abnormalities from occurring, regular prenatal care, the use of prenatal vitamins, a healthy diet with folic acid supplements and the avoidance of internal and external toxins will have to be closely monitored.
A visit to the family doctor before conception can help assess and gauge any potential dangers. If you are trying to conceive, a preconception visit to the family doctor will allow for open discussion about family and medical history. The doctor might recommend alterations to any prescribed medications that can potentially cause complications. Expecting mothers should inform the doctor about any supplements being taken, allowing the doctor to check whether the supplement is safe for the developing child.
Folic acid is a type of B vitamin that helps prevent abnormalities in the brain and spine. Experts have said that women can benefit from a daily dosage of 400 milligrams of folic acid. This should be administered before the pregnancy and during the first trimester.
Following a healthy lifestyle will help facilitate a healthy body and a healthy environment for the developing fetus. Maintaining a diet full of fruits, vegetables and lean meats will help ward off fetal abnormalities. Spinach, kale, orange juice and enriched grains are viable sources of vitamins, antioxidants and even folic acid.
With the approval of a doctor, pregnant mothers can help ward off fetal abnormalities with low-impact, aerobic exercises. Some examples of these exercises are brisk walking, swimming and yoga. Aerobic exercise increases the levels of oxygenated blood cells in and around the fetus.
Expectant mothers should avoid alcohol altogether to help prevent any birth defects. Drinking alcohol while pregnant can potentially lead to fetal alcohol spectrum disorder. This disorder damages the central nervous system of the developing child, potentially retarding cognitive and behavioral development.
Pregnant women also should avoid drugs and cigarettes. Marijuana, heroin and other drugs can easily pass through the bloodstream and into the fetus. Cigarette smoking restricts oxygen levels, resulting in limb defects, brain damage and other fetal abnormalities.
Expectant mothers should avoid environmental toxins. Staying away raw meat, smog and animal droppings can help safeguard the mother and the developing fetus from germs that can cause diseases. Caustic fumes from household cleaning products also should be adamantly avoided.