Investigation of Some Modifiable Risk Factors That Lead to Congenital Anomalies: A Review Article

Congenital anomalies are inborn errors of development. Genetic and environmental factors are known causes of congenital anomalies. Environmental factors are modifiable risk factors. This review focuses on modifiable risk factors for birth defects. There is a strong link between alcohol use and an increased risk of congenital anomalies. Marijuana can be expected to cause fetal growth restriction; smoking before conception, even with cessation in the first trimester, may also pose a risk for gastroschisis. Benzodiazepines during the first trimester were associated with Dandy–Walker malformation , anophthalmia or microphthalmia  and esophageal atresia. While oral retinoids are absolutely contraindicated, topical retinoids, should conservatively be avoided during pregnancy but  if  were used by accident, the existing data can reduce the anxiety of happening adverse pregnancy outcomes. Antihypertensives such as labetalol, methyldopa and extended release nifedipine are relatively safe choices. Antiemetics  such as doxylamine-pyridoxine and metoclopramide may have potential teratogenicity in first trimester. Ondansetron use was not significantly associated with major congenital anomalies but recent meta-analysis suggested more concern.  An antiepileptic such as   valproate poses the highest risk among antiepileptic drugs, whereas the prevalence of congenital anomalies is the lowest with lamotrigine, levetiracetam, and oxcarbazepine. Education and counseling to women who are planning to become pregnant can reduce the risk of congenital anolamies.