Amniocentesis is the most common prenatal test used to rule out certain birth defects and genetic disorders. The decision to have amniocentesis requires careful planning and thoughtful discussion with your family and doctor.
Review Date: June 25, 2012
March of Dimes Birth Defects Foundation
This consumer information document provides general information on the various types of birth defects and includes causes, detection and diagnosis, treatment and prevention.
Review Date: March 25, 2013
March of Dimes Birth Defects Foundation
Information and guidance for parents of children with cerebral palsy. This web site provides a definition of cerebral palsy and discusses CP's causes, prevention, affect on development, treatment, educational implications, and coping strategies.
Review Date: February 14, 2013
The Nemours Foundation
This page provides a link to each state medical clinic that provides assistance for parents with children affected by Down Syndrome.
Review Date: November 19, 2012
National Down Syndrome Congress
This leaflet is designed to help people who have Down’s syndrome, or who care for and work with people who have Down’s syndrome to understand the problem of dysfluency in speech.
Review Date: November 19, 2012
Stuttering Foundation of America
About one in every 33 babies is born with a birth defect. Not all birth defects can be prevented, but there are things that a woman can do before and during pregnancy to increase her chance of having a healthy baby, such as taking folic acid and preventing infections.
Review Date: February 12, 2013
National Center on Birth Defects and Developmental Disabilities, CDC
This is a guide for families denied treatment of a hemangioma, port wine stain, lymphatic malformation, venous malformation, or other vascular birthmark, tumor, or syndrome.
Review Date: March 30, 2011
The Vascular Birthmarks Foundation
Low-birthweight babies are at increased risk for serious health problems. Learn what you can do to reduce your risk of having a low-birthweight baby.
Review Date: February 05, 2013
March of Dimes Birth Defects Foundation
Find online support groups for individuals and families coping with heart and lung transplantation, congenital heart disease, Down Syndrome, Noonan Syndrome, and more.
Review Date: October 16, 2012
Congenital Heart Information Network
PKU (phenylketonuria) is an inherited disorder that, if untreated, causes mental retardation. Fortunately, through routine newborn screening, almost all affected newborns are diagnosed and treated early, allowing them to grow up with normal intelligence.
Review Date: November 16, 2012
March of Dimes Birth Defects Foundation
Learning the dangers inherent in our modern world can help you avoid many harmful exposures and increase the chances of having a healthy baby. This site discusses prenatal care, nutrition, recreation and more.
Review Date: December 16, 2011
Birth Defect Research for Children, Inc.
Download or order this free video featuring candid conversations with parents and insightful information from some of the world's leading craniofacial experts about cleft lip and palate.
Review Date: November 01, 2012
Foundation for Faces of Children
What is the cause of Down Syndrome? What impact does it have on society? What other medical conditions are common among those with Down Syndrome? Find the answers to these questions here.
Review Date: November 19, 2012
National Down Syndrome Society