Brilio.net - Congenital heart defects in the fetus are serious conditions that can affect the health of the baby from birth. This condition occurs when the structure of the heart disorder or the function of the heart circulation that is carried from birth fails in the early stages of fetal development. Therefore, early detection through routine check-ups during pregnancy is very important.
According to the Ministry of Health's website, fetal heart development examinations can be carried out at the end of the first trimester to the third trimester. Pregnant women are advised to start undergoing examinations from the first trimester to ensure that fetal heart development is normal. This is because congenital heart disease (CHD) in babies often occurs.
Based on data from the Ministry of Health, the incidence of PJB is reported to be around 8-10 babies out of 1000 live births and 30% of them have shown symptoms in the first weeks of life. If not detected early and not treated properly, 50% of deaths will occur in the first month of life.
Apart from that, in order for the fetus to grow and develop properly, it is only right for the mother to take preventive measures against unwanted things such as maintaining a healthy lifestyle and getting enough nutrition during pregnancy . Well, to better understand how to prevent congenital heart defects in the fetus, see the preventive measures during pregnancy, adapted by brilio.net from various sources, Monday (30/9).
1. Regular consultation with an obstetrician from the beginning of pregnancy.
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One important step in preventing congenital heart defects in the fetus is to have regular check-ups with an obstetrician, especially since the first trimester. Ultrasonography (USG) examinations in the first and second trimesters allow early detection of structural abnormalities in the fetal heart.
According to a study published by the Journal of Clinical Ultrasound, routine screening in the first trimester has been shown to increase early identification of the risk of congenital heart defects. If signs of abnormalities are found, doctors can refer pregnant women for a more detailed examination with a fetal echocardiography expert.
2. Balanced nutritional intake and folic acid supplements.
A balanced diet is essential during pregnancy. Folate, in particular, plays a role in preventing birth defects, including those of the heart. Research published in The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition shows that folic acid helps reduce the risk of birth defects, especially those related to the neural tube and heart.
Therefore, consuming 400800 micrograms of folic acid per day during pregnancy, especially in the first trimester, is highly recommended. In addition, pregnant women should increase their consumption of foods rich in folic acid such as spinach, broccoli, beans, and fortified cereals.
3. Avoid consuming alcohol or smoking.
It is no secret that cigarettes and alcohol are not good for your health. Especially for pregnant women, because it can be fatal for both the mother and the baby. Consuming alcohol and smoking during pregnancy can increase the risk of congenital heart defects in the fetus.
Alcohol can interfere with the development of the fetus' heart, while cigarettes contain dangerous chemicals that affect blood flow and oxygen to the fetus. A study from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) found that smoking during pregnancy can increase the risk of congenital heart defects by up to 20%. Therefore, it is important for pregnant women to completely avoid alcohol and cigarettes during pregnancy.
4. Manage diabetes levels during pregnancy.
Pregnant women with diabetes, especially gestational diabetes, must be very careful in controlling blood sugar levels. Uncontrolled diabetes can increase the risk of congenital heart defects in the fetus.
A study from the American Heart Association found that high blood sugar levels in early pregnancy can have a negative impact on the development of the fetus' heart. Therefore, strict blood sugar control with a healthy diet, light exercise, and appropriate medication is very important for pregnant women with diabetes.
5. Avoid using high-risk drugs.
Some medications taken during pregnancy may increase the risk of congenital heart defects in the fetus. For example, medications used to treat epilepsy, severe acne, or depression should be taken with extreme caution.
According to research from the National Institutes of Health (NIH), medications such as isotretinoin (for acne) and some anticonvulsants have been shown to increase the risk of fetal heart defects. It is important to always consult a doctor before taking any medication during pregnancy, and to use safer alternatives when possible.
6. Rubella vaccination before pregnancy.
Rubella infection in early pregnancy is one of the main causes of congenital heart defects. Therefore, rubella vaccination before pregnancy is highly recommended for women who do not yet have immunity.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), rubella vaccination before pregnancy can reduce the risk of congenital heart defects due to rubella infection. If a woman is infected with rubella in the first trimester of pregnancy, the risk of fetal heart defects can reach 80%. Therefore, conducting a rubella immunity check and receiving vaccination before pregnancy is highly recommended.
7. Maintain mental health while managing stress.
Excessive stress during pregnancy can negatively impact fetal development, including heart development. Research from Harvard Medical School suggests that chronic stress can affect hormones and blood flow, which in turn can affect the development of vital fetal organs, including the heart.
Therefore, managing stress with relaxation techniques such as yoga, meditation, or psychological counseling can help pregnant women maintain their health and optimal fetal development. Good mental health during pregnancy also increases the chances of giving birth to a healthy baby without congenital complications.