"Birth defect" refers to damage that occurs while the fetus is in the womb, which may be caused by genetic mutations, infections, or exposure to toxins.
This can result in fetal distress or physical trauma to the child, especially broken clavicles and damage to the brachial plexus nerves.
It can also deprive the child of oxygen as the umbilical cord is pinched, potentially causing brain damage or death.
[4] Fetal malformations and birth injuries may occur as a result of exposure to environmental toxins such as mercury or lead.
[6] Genetic mutations can cause a wide variety of fetal malformations, ranging from relatively mild cleft lips to severe and even fatal deformities.
[medical citation needed] In addition, some studies suggest that maternal infections increase the risk of neurodevelopmental disorders, including schizophrenia, in the child.
In more severe cases, the child may sustain permanent nerve damage and may not have full use of the shoulder, arm, or hand.
Brain damage may be caused by a number of factors, including fetal malformation due to genetic mutation or exposure to toxins, intrauterine hypoxia, or physical trauma during delivery.