Important Notice: Our web hosting provider recently started charging us for additional visits, which was unexpected. In response, we're seeking donations. Depending on the situation, we may explore different monetization options for our Community and Expert Contributors. It's crucial to provide more returns for their expertise and offer more Expert Validated Answers or AI Validated Answers. Learn more about our hosting issue here.

What causes birth defects?

0
Posted

What causes birth defects?

0

Asked in Sexual Health at 2:56 PM on January 11, 2008 Tags: causes, birth, defects

0

Genetics In ancient times, abnormalities were seen as warnings or punishments from the gods. Even quite recently, it was believed that specific events during the pregnancy – such as being frightened by a mouse – would lead to specific defects in the baby, eg a mouse shaped birth mark. Such folk beliefs still persist in places. However, most defects that can be traced to a single cause have a genetic origin. This does not necessarily mean that the parents suffer from the same defect. It may be that they are carriers of the condition, or that the genetic problem occurred for the first time in the cells that gave rise to the baby. Known genetic causes account for about 25 per cent of all abnormalities. Environment Environmental causes (including exposure to drugs, radiation and illnesses) can be identified in about 10 per cent of birth defects. The risk of exposure to such environmental factors often causes great concern, although genetic causes are more common. Other factors The exact ca

Related Questions

Thanksgiving questions

*Sadly, we had to bring back ads too. Hopefully more targeted.