San José, Costa Rica. May, 2015.

Cleft lip and cleft palate occur, in the majority of cases, through heredity. Although it is very difficult for parents to prevent this condition, there are some recommendations that the mother may follow in order to reduce the risk.

According to Dr. Jorge Martínez Vásquez, pediatrician of the Clínica Bíblica Hospital, “these congenital malformations occur during the development of the embryo and may happen to anyone. There is no way to prevent it, so that it is important that the mother be healthy, that she is well fed and is not exposed to radiations.”

Both cleft lip as well as cleft palate as well as other deformities develop in the baby during the three first months of the pregnancy.

For the mothers

When deciding on conception, the mothers must consume folic acid, which is vitamin B that is believed to perform an essential role in the development of the fetal brain and of the spinal cord, especially during the first trimester of pregnancy. Indeed, this is necessary even before she is aware of her pregnancy.

If you are pregnant, it is recommended that you avoid the passive exposure to or smoking during pregnancy. A healthy lifestyle and avoiding alcoholic beverages is recommended.

For further information or for requesting medical attention, please call the number 2522-1000, or write to the email citas@clinicabiblica.com or contact us via chat at the website: www.clinicabiblica.com.