Birth defects affect about 1 in 33 babies born in the United States each year. Some birth defects cannot be prevented. With others, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk of having a child with a certain defect. Prenatal tests also are available that check for or detect some birth defects.
This pamphlet explains
types of birth defects
common causes
things you can do that may reduce your risk
screening and diagnostic testing options for birth defects