January marks National Birth Defects Prevention Month, and the Henry and Stark County Health Departments are highlighting ways to help reduce birth defects. The theme for 2026 is “Every Journey Matters,” focusing on healthy choices before and during pregnancy. Advice from the Health Department includes taking daily folic acid, consulting healthcare providers about medications, staying current on vaccines, achieving a healthy weight before pregnancy, and avoiding harmful substances. Every four and a half minutes, a baby is born with a birth defect in the United States. For support or information on WIC services, local First Choice Healthcare locations are available to help.
Heather Aldred, Maternal and Child Health Services Supervisor with the Health Department notes, “Many steps can be taken to increase a woman’s chance of having a healthy baby. Here are some helpful tips for pregnant women or women who may become pregnant: While we can’t prevent all birth defects, the following steps increase a woman’s chance of having a healthy baby.
1. Be sure to take 400 micrograms (mcg) of folic acid every day.
2. Book a visit with your healthcare provider before stopping or starting any medicine.
3. Become up-to-date with all vaccines, including the flu shot.
4. Before you get pregnant, try to reach a healthy weight.
5. Boost your health by avoiding harmful substances during pregnancy, such as alcohol, tobacco, and other drugs.
“Most people are unaware of how common, costly and critical birth defects are in the United States, or that there are simple steps that can be taken to reduce the risk of birth defects” adds Aldred. “The health of both parents prior to pregnancy can affect the risk of having a child with a birth defect. Diet, life-style choices, factors in the environment, health conditions and medications before and during pregnancy all can play a role in preventing or increasing the risk of birth defects.”
The department highlights “Prevent to Protect” guidelines, which can help reduce both birth defects and pregnancy complications such as early loss, prematurity, and stillbirths. Birth defects range from congenital heart conditions to cleft palate and genetic syndromes.
Whether you’re seeking nutritional support, health screenings, or guidance on infant and child wellness, assistance is available in Kewanee at 309-852-5272, Colona at 309-792-4011, and Toulon at 309-852-3115. WIC services provide vital support for pregnant women, infants, and young children.