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Some birth defects can be corrected by surgery after birth. Some examples are cleft palate, extra fingers or toes, webbed feet, club foot and 'hole in the heart'.

Some birth defects can be corrected by surgery after birth. Some examples are cleft palate, extra fingers or toes, webbed feet, club foot and 'hole in the heart'.

Birth defects may be caused by nutritional deficiencies of the mother and can be avoided by ensuring a good diet and supplemental vitamins and minerals. [[Folic acid]] is a common supplement.

Birth defects may be caused by nutritional deficiencies of the mother and can be avoided by ensuring a good diet with supplemental vitamins and minerals and also by avoiding [[alcohol]] and [[tobacco]]. [[Folic acid]] is a common supplement.

There are potential birth defects that are genetic , and tests may be available to detect the condition in the womb or to test the parents and predict a potential risk if conception occurs. The parents can then assess the risk factors and decide to plan or avoid a pregnancy.  

There are potential birth defects that are genetic , and tests may be available to detect the condition in the womb or to test the parents and predict a potential risk if conception occurs. The parents can then assess the risk factors and decide to plan or avoid a pregnancy.