What causes birth defects in humans?

Closer to home, in traditional Ankole and Kigezi societies, a child born with extreme deformities was (and still is) considered an abomination, shunned by all and sundry and a source of utter shame to the unfortunate couple that gave birth to such a one. It is usually attributed to witchcraft or punishment from the gods for some heinous sin committed by the parents, usually the mother.

Besides the go-to reason of witchcraft for most people, what could be the cause of such birth defects, scientifically speaking?

Mistakes that can contribute to birth defects

A birth defect is a condition that happens while the baby is developing inside the womb. It is something visibly abnormal, internally abnormal, or chemically abnormal about your newborn baby’s body. The defect might be caused by genetics, infection, radiation, or drug exposure, or there might be no known reason. Examples of birth defects include phenylketonuria, sickle cell anemia and Down syndrome.

Healthcare providers can diagnose birth defects before your child’s birth, at birth and after birth. Most are found within your child’s first year.

The most delicate period that has the maximum risk for any kinds of birth defects is during the first 3 months of pregnancy. Birth defects may affect how the body of the newborn looks, works, or both. Some defects can also include defective heart functioning. Some of the common contributing factors to birth defects are:

Defective genetics

When one or more genes mutate and prevent the right growth of the foetus and the proper development of the unborn, this can almost always result in a birth defect.

Chromosomal problems

Another major contributing factor to birth defects is a chromosomal problem. In some cases, a missing chromosome or the presence of an extra chromosome can lead to certain problems in the proper growth of the foetus.

Exposures to medicines, chemicals or toxins

Exposure to certain medicines, chemicals or toxins can increase a pregnant woman's chances of suffering birth defects. For example, alcohol, and smoking can cause a serious defect in the brain of the unborn child.

Exposure to infections

Experts say certain infections can also increase a pregnant woman's chances of experiencing birth defects. For example, Zika virus, COVID-19 virus, etc.

Lack of nutrients

Not eating properly or giving the body proper rest can also increase a pregnant woman's chances of developing complications during childbirth. One of the important nutrients includes folic acid, which plays a key role in causing neural tube defects.