Need to talk? Call 1800 882 436.
It's a free call with a maternal child health nurse. *call charges may apply from your mobile

Is it an emergency? Dial 000
If you need urgent medical help, call triple zero immediately.

beginning of content

Search results for: "Birth Defects"

Need more information?

What is a congenital disorder?

Health problems present from birth include any health condition that a baby is born with and are sometimes called birth defects, birth differences or congenital anomalies.

Read more on Pregnancy, Birth & Baby website

Folate and pregnancy

Folate (folic acid) supplements are important for pregnancy as they can help prevent birth defects, including neural tube defects such as spina bifida.

Read more on Pregnancy, Birth & Baby website

Limb difference

Limb difference is when an arm or a leg is not shaped in a typical way. Learn more about how correct diagnosis and treatment plans can help.

Read more on Pregnancy, Birth & Baby website

Neural tube defects

Neural tube defect affects less than 1 in 1000 pregnancies. Learn about factors that increase your baby's risk, and what you can do to reduce risk.

Read more on Pregnancy, Birth & Baby website

Congenital heart disease

Congenital heart differences or defects (CHD) are a group of different heart abnormalities that are present at birth.

Read more on Pregnancy, Birth & Baby website

Pregnancy checkups, screenings and scans

Knowing what check-ups, screenings and scans to have and when to have them during your pregnancy is important information for every pregnant woman.

Read more on Pregnancy, Birth & Baby website

Having a baby with health problems at birth

Some babies are born early or with a condition that means they need special care. Find out what to expect in the weeks after your baby’s birth.

Read more on Pregnancy, Birth & Baby website

Birthmarks

Birthmarks are coloured marks that are visible on the skin and vary in type. They are often present at birth or develop soon afterwards.

Read more on Pregnancy, Birth & Baby website

Spina bifida

Spina bifida is a condition that affects the normal development of a baby's spine early in pregnancy. Read about causes, diagnosis and support.

Read more on Pregnancy, Birth & Baby website

Cleft lip and cleft palate

Cleft lip or palate happens when parts of the lip, upper jaw or roof of the mouth don't join properly early in pregnancy.

Read more on healthdirect website

Call us and speak to a Maternal Child Health Nurse for personal advice and guidance.

Need further advice or guidance from our maternal child health nurses?

Healthdirect Australia acknowledges the Traditional Owners of Country throughout Australia and their continuing connection to land, sea and community. We pay our respects to the Traditional Owners and to Elders both past and present.

This information is for your general information and use only and is not intended to be used as medical advice and should not be used to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any medical condition, nor should it be used for therapeutic purposes.

The information is not a substitute for independent professional advice and should not be used as an alternative to professional health care. If you have a particular medical problem, please consult a healthcare professional.

Except as permitted under the Copyright Act 1968, this publication or any part of it may not be reproduced, altered, adapted, stored and/or distributed in any form or by any means without the prior written permission of Healthdirect Australia.