January is National Birth Defects Awareness Month. The National Birth Defects Prevention Network (NBDPN) has designated the year 2022 with the theme, “Healthy Communities, Healthy Babies.” The theme is meant to focus on the systemic barriers’, communities face, that prevent individuals from equal access to the recommended care before, during, and after pregnancy. Not all birth defects can be prevented however the NBDPN has outlined prevention tips to ensure people are at their healthiest self well pregnant. The goal with this theme is to build more resources for all people to have healthy, successful pregnancies.
5 Prevention Tips for Healthy Babies According to The National Birth Defects Prevention Network (NBDPN)
Take 400 micrograms of folic acid every day.
Visit your healthcare provider before getting pregnant to discuss topics, such as medications, family history, and mental health.
Get up to date with vaccines before becoming pregnant.
Care for your body and mind well pregnant. Eat nourishing foods and manage your stress.
Avoid harmful substances well pregnant, such as alcohol, tobacco, and other drugs.
Visit nbdpn.org to find local resources accessible to you. Take the month of January to raise awareness of birth defects and observe the theme of, “Healthy Communities, Healthy Babies.”
References
1. “National Birth Defects Prevention Network.” National Birth Defects Awareness Month - National Birth Defects Prevention Network, National Birth Defects Prevention Network, https://www.nbdpn.org/bdam.php.