Neonatal Nursing and Maternal Healthcare

Congenital Malformations and Birth Complications

Birth defects, congenital diseases, and congenital malformations are all terms used to describe congenital anomalies. Congenital anomalies are structural or functional abnormalities (for example, metabolic problems) that develop during intrauterine life and can be discovered prenatally, at birth, or later in childhood, such as hearing difficulties. Congenital refers to a condition that exists at or before birth. Infant and childhood mortality, chronic sickness, and disability are all linked to congenital abnormalities. Birth malformations are a common occurrence. Each year, the CDC estimates that 120 000 (1 in 33) newborns are born with birth abnormalities. Approximately 3% to 4% of kids are born with a birth defect. A birth defect is a health concern or a physical deformity that occurs during pregnancy. It might be quite minor or extremely severe. Some birth malformations are life-threatening, and a newborn may only live a few months as a result. "Congenital anomalies" or "congenital abnormalities" are other terms for birth problems. Genetic or environmental causes, or a combination of the two, are responsible for the majority of birth abnormalities (multifactorial birth defects). A combination of genetic and environmental factors causes multifactorial birth abnormalities. To put it another way, a person can inherit a gene that makes them more sensitive to environmental triggers.