Anomalies Can Occur At Any Stage of Pregnancy

Franjic S

Published on: 2023-11-25

Abstract

Fetal anomalies during pregnancy are genetic or physical defects of the fetus that can affect the pregnancy, complicate childbirth and have serious adverse effects on the child. Fetal anomalies, which are often called birth defects, are structural changes in one or more parts of the fetus' body that increase the chances of stillbirth and can cause deficiencies in the child's health, development and quality of life. Many women whose pregnancies are affected by fetal anomalies consider terminating the pregnancy. Fetal anomalies can range from minor problems that are easily treated, to serious problems that mean the fetus will either be stillborn or die shortly after birth. If the pregnancy is affected by an anomaly found on a blood test or ultrasound, the woman will be referred to a doctor specializing in high-risk pregnancies for further testing and discussion.