What causes fetal malformations?
Sep 13, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. He Haochen
Introduction
In general, fetal malformations may be associated with unhealthy lifestyle habits, exposure to radiation, medication use, genetic factors, and chromosomal abnormalities. If a pregnant woman has habits such as smoking, drinking alcohol, or frequently staying up late, these factors could potentially lead to fetal abnormalities. It is recommended that the patient maintain a healthy sleep schedule and quit smoking and alcohol consumption.
In general, fetal malformations may be associated with不良 lifestyle habits, exposure to radiation, medication use, genetic factors, chromosomal abnormalities, and other factors. A detailed analysis is as follows:
1. Poor lifestyle habits
If a pregnant woman smokes, drinks alcohol, or frequently stays up late, these habits may lead to fetal malformations. It is recommended that expectant mothers maintain a regular sleep schedule and quit smoking and drinking.
2. Exposure to radiation
If a woman is exposed to radioactive substances during pregnancy, it may result in fetal malformations. Regular prenatal check-ups are recommended during pregnancy to assess the growth and development of the fetus.
3. Medication use
If a pregnant woman uses medications indiscriminately during pregnancy—especially during the first trimester, which is a period of high susceptibility to teratogenic effects—it may interfere with normal fetal development, potentially causing mutations or congenital malformations.
4. Genetic factors
If parents are closely related by blood (consanguineous marriage), they may carry recessive disease-causing genes, increasing the likelihood of homozygosity for these genes, which can lead to fetal malformations. Additionally, if either parent has chromosomal abnormalities, these may be passed on to the fetus and cause malformations.
5. Chromosomal abnormalities
Chromosomal abnormalities—including structural or numerical abnormalities—may arise due to mutations after the fusion of sperm and egg, and can lead to fetal malformations.
Regular prenatal examinations are recommended during pregnancy. If fetal malformations are detected, prompt medical attention should be sought and appropriate management should be carried out under the guidance of a physician.
