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1.01.2026

Birth Defect Awareness Month

Birth defects affect 1 in 33 babies born in the U.S. each year, making them a leading concern for families and healthcare providers. This month, we’re sharing important information from the March of Dimes to help families understand what birth defects are, how they occur, and what steps can support a healthy pregnancy.

What Are Birth Defects?

Birth defects are structural changes present at birth that affect how a baby’s body looks, develops, or functions. They can range from very mild to serious and may involve almost any part of the body.

Examples include:

• Cleft lip and cleft palate
  
  
• Clubfoot
  
  
• Congenital heart defects
  
  
• Gastroschisis
  
  
• Hearing loss
  
  
• Microcephaly
  
  
• Neural tube defects like spina bifida
  
  

Many birth defects begin in the first trimester, when a baby’s organs are forming.

What Causes Birth Defects?

In many cases, the cause is unknown. Most often, birth defects develop due to a combination of genetics, environmental exposures, and maternal health factors.

Known risk factors include:

• Changes in genes or chromosomes
  
  
• Smoking, alcohol, or drug use
  
  
• Certain medications
  
  
• Environmental toxins
  
  
• Infections, such as Zika or rubella
  
  
• Diabetes or other chronic conditions
  
  
• Maternal age over 34
  
  

Having a risk factor does not mean a baby will have a birth defect—but it may increase the chance.

Can Birth Defects Be Prevented?

Not all birth defects can be prevented, but parents can take steps that support a healthy pregnancy.

Before Pregnancy

• Schedule a preconception checkup
  
  
• Be up to date on vaccinations
  
  
• Take 400 mcg of folic acid daily
  
  
• Review medications with a provider
  
  
• Manage chronic health conditions
  
  
• Maintain a healthy weight
  
  
• Explore family health history if needed
  
  

During Pregnancy

• Begin prenatal care early and continue throughout pregnancy
  
  
• Take a prenatal vitamin with 600 mcg of folic acid
  
  
• Avoid smoking, alcohol, and drugs
  
  
• Avoid toxic substances and high-mercury fish
  
  
• Follow guidance to prevent infections

This information is for general educational purposes only and is not intended to provide medical advice. Always talk with your health care provider before making changes to your diet, exercise routine, medications, or before starting any vitamins or supplements. Your provider can help you decide what is best for you and your pregnancy.

How Birth Defects Are Detected

Some birth defects are detected before birth through:

• Ultrasounds
  
  
• Blood tests
  
  
• Amniocentesis
  
  
• Fetal echocardiograms
  
  

Others are identified at birth or during early infancy. Early detection often leads to better outcomes.

How Birth Defects Affect Health and Development

Birth defects vary widely in severity. Some may require little or no treatment. Others may involve:

• Surgery
  
  
• Medications
  
  
• Medical devices
  
  
• Speech, occupational, or physical therapy
  
  

Early, coordinated care helps many children reach their full potential.

Supporting Families

Learning about birth defects can feel overwhelming, but families don’t have to navigate this alone. March of Dimes and other organizations provide education, support, and resources to help families understand their options and access care.