Causes of cleft palate in children

This is an automatically translated article.

The article was professionally consulted by Specialist Doctor II Tran Van Trong - Specialist in Pediatric Surgery, Plastic Surgery - Aesthetics - Department of General Surgery - Vinmec Danang International Hospital.
Among birth defects, cleft palate has the highest rate, the cause of this condition is very complex, often related to genetic factors and environmental factors affecting during pregnancy. especially the first 3 months of pregnancy.

1. What is cleft palate?

Cleft lip and cleft palate often go together. A cleft lip is an uneven development of the upper lip, a partial defect in the upper lip, creating a cleft in one or both sides of the midline of the upper lip. Cleft palate is a developmental defect in the palate that creates a gap between the roof of the mouth and the nasal cavity.
Cleft lip and cleft palate in fetus usually have 3 forms: Cleft lip but not cleft palate; Cleft palate but no cleft lip; Both cleft lip and cleft palate.
Cleft lip, cleft palate can be cured by surgery after birth.

2. Causes of cleft palate in fetus

The cause of cleft lip and cleft palate is very complex, not clearly known, but is believed to be the influence of genetic factors and environmental factors
Lips are the part of the body that is shaped Formation occurs between the 4th and 5th weeks of pregnancy, the upper jaw is formed between the 7th and 8th weeks of pregnancy. So at this time, if external factors have a bad effect on pregnant women during this time, there is a risk of causing birth defects such as cleft lip and cleft palate.
Some causes of cleft palate in children include:
Genetic factors, having a close relative with cleft lip and cleft palate. The mother is infected with a virus in the early stages of pregnancy from the 4th to the 12th week such as: Rubella virus infection, flu ... Mothers use high doses of vitamin A, vitamin A is at risk of causing teratogens when used in high doses. high. The diet does not provide enough folic acid, vitamin B12 and vitamin B6. Mother addicted to alcohol, tobacco Parents with gonorrhea, syphilis without thorough treatment Frequent exposure to toxic environment, radiation exposure, chemical contamination.

In addition, there are a number of risk factors that increase the risk of disease, including:
Psychological factors: Mother is often stressed, worried, thinking too much. Without adequate nutrition, the mother is malnourished. Parents are old, health is not good.

3. What to do to prevent the risk of cleft palate?

Studies show that folic acid can help prevent cleft palate. Therefore, at least 1 month before becoming pregnant and during pregnancy, women should take between 0.4 and 1mg of folic acid per day. It is possible to supplement by increasing the intake of foods rich in folic acid such as green vegetables, cereals... or taking additional tablets. However, care should be taken not to use too high a dose to cause nerve damage.
In addition, to prevent diseases, parents should prepare for good health before becoming pregnant:
During pregnancy, mothers need proper nutrition, rest, reasonable use of drugs as directed by the doctor. and regular antenatal check-ups Avoid exposure to agents that affect the fetus: Chemicals, radiation... Keep your mind at ease, possibly by exercising such as nursing, walking, yoga. .. Always be careful when using medicines during pregnancy, including vitamin A. Get fully vaccinated before planning to become pregnant such as rubella, flu...

The cause of cleft palate is not clearly known. However, according to research, there is a close relationship with genetics and factors affecting the mother during pregnancy. In which, the influencing factors during pregnancy are the main, so pregnant women need to take measures to avoid those factors. Besides, periodic antenatal check-up is the best measure to monitor and detect abnormalities early.
At Vinmec International General Hospital, there is a package maternity service as a solution to help pregnant women feel secure because of the companionship of the medical team throughout the pregnancy. When choosing Maternity Package, pregnant women can:
The pregnancy process is monitored by a team of qualified doctors Regular check-up, early detection of abnormalities Maternity package helps to facilitate the process. Birth program Newborns receive comprehensive care, Dr. Trong has over 10 years of experience in Pediatric Surgery and Plastic Surgery - Aesthetic, and soon became one of the leading doctors in the field of Pediatric Surgery. Children's surgery, especially Laparoscopic Surgery and Plastic Surgery - Aesthetics.
To register for examination and treatment at Vinmec International General Hospital, you can contact Vinmec Health System nationwide, or register online HERE.

SEE ALSO:
Which side is the upper lip cleft common? Can cleft lip and palate defects be detected by fetal ultrasound? Smile surgery for children with cleft palate