Victoria S. Sivils, MD, discusses birth defects prevention

Victoria S. Sivils, MD, with The Pediatric Clinic, recently spoke with WDAM about birth defects and ways to prevent them.

“There are things we can do to prevent birth defects such as making sure we’re taking our multivitamins, avoiding drugs or alcohol in pregnancy and keeping our recommended appointments, both in pregnancy and after,” Sivils said.

The Mississippi State Department of Health lists these five tips for preventing birth disorders:

  1. Be sure to take 400 micrograms (mcg) of folic acid every day.
  2. Book a visit with your health care provider before stopping or starting any medicine.
  3. Become up-to-date with all vaccines, including the flu shot.
  4. Before getting pregnant, try to reach a healthy weight.
  5. Boost health by avoiding harmful substances during pregnancy, such as alcohol, tobacco and other drugs.

The CDC reports that birth defects are the leading cause of infant deaths, accounting for 20% of them.

Follow the link to watch the full interview: http://bit.ly/3wx1He9