Antenatal Care: Your Shield Against Birth Defects, Experts Reveal Critical Role

• Globally, 7.9 million children are born with birth defects annually; India accounts for 1.7 million, making it the fourth leading cause of neonatal mortality.
• The "Inverted Pyramid" of care emphasizes the first trimester as crucial for intervention, with maternal health preparation starting pre-conception.
• Folic acid supplementation before and during early pregnancy can significantly reduce neural tube defects; managing chronic conditions like diabetes and thyroid disorders is also vital.
• Early detection through targeted ultrasounds and advanced screenings allows parents to understand conditions, plan deliveries, and make informed decisions.
• Experts stress that antenatal care is not optional but essential for preventing avoidable defects, detecting others early, and ensuring a healthy start for every child.

Why It Matters: Proactive antenatal care, starting pre-conception, is crucial for preventing and early detecting birth defects.