Keep healthy before delivery

Every 4.5 minutes, a baby is born with a birth defect. The Orange County Health Department along with many other collaborating partners such as the Healthy Start Coalition, March of Dimes, and the Infant Mortality Task Force are committed to the health of every baby in Orange County and would like to continue helping women in our community reduce that risk.

“Birth defects impact the lives of the entire family and community. We can all play an essential role in helping prevent birth defects by encouraging the women in our lives to receive early pre-natal care and follow important steps to a healthy pregnancy and baby,” said Lesli P. Ahonkhai, interim administrator of the Orange County Health Department.

In the United States, about one in every 33 babies is born with a birth defect. Birth defects are a leading cause of infant death, accounting for more than one of every five infant deaths. In addition, babies born with birth defects have a greater chance of illness and long-term disability than babies without birth defects.

Birth defects occur before a baby is born. Most birth defects occur in the first three months of pregnancy, when the organs of the baby are forming. This is a very important stage of development. However, some birth defects occur later in pregnancy. During the last six months of pregnancy, the tissues and organs continue to grow and develop.

Not all birth defects can be prevented. However, a woman can increase her own chances of having a healthy baby by managing health conditions and adopting healthy behaviors before becoming pregnant. Women can take the following steps in preparing for a healthy pregnancy:

• Take 400 micrograms (mcg) of folic acid every day.

• Don’t drink alcohol, smoke or use “street” drugs.

• Ensure regular dental visits and see a health care professional regularly.

• Talk to a health care provider about taking any medications.

• Learn how to prevent infections during pregnancy.

• Talk to your doctor about vaccinations.

• Keep any medical condition, including diabetes, under control.

• Reach and maintain a healthy weight.

Mirna Chamorro

Public Information Officer 


Orange and Seminole County Health Departments