Causes Of Cerebral Palsy

What Are The Main Causes Of Cerebral Palsy?

Many people live a life with cerebral palsy without ever knowing for sure what caused it. There are many different causes of cerebral palsy so it can be difficult to determine in some cases. With that said there are certain well known causes and some people are able to determine exactly how or why they have been affected by this condition.

Before Birth

There are various situations that can cause an unborn baby to be affected by this condition. Many of these situations are beyond the control of the mother who at times can do little to prevent the condition from forming. In other situations the condition can be a direct result of the mother's behavior or lifestyle while she was pregnant.

Any damage to the unborn child's brain while in the womb will pose serious risk to the life of the child and make them susceptible to being diagnosed with some form of cerebral palsy. Damage or interruption to the development of the child's brain could be caused by lack of oxygen, lack of nutrition, ingestion of harmful substances, physical harm or infection of the fetus or the mother. Incompatibility of blood between the mother and child is very rare but can also affect brain development.

After Birth

Premature babies are at risk of cerebral palsy simply because they have not finished developing in the womb. While many premature babies will go on to live a normal healthy life there are unfortunately some who will be affected by cerebral palsy for a lifetime as their brains did not fully develop in the womb.

On the other hand babies who are born after the age of normal gestation are also susceptible to the condition. Once the age of gestation is reached a baby's brain needs more stimulation to develop which can only be done outside of the womb. It is not well known but babies born past their gestation date actually have higher instances of cerebral palsy than babies born between 38 to 42 weeks.

Babies are incredibly fragile especially immediately following their birth. It is very sad and unfortunate that the mishandling or treatment of new born babies and young infants can cause a life long condition that can be difficult, painful and frustrating for the person affected. Physical harm caused to a baby or infant is a major cause of cerebral palsy and whether it is harm that was inflicted with intention or not does not ease the condition the child will have to deal with for life.

Cerebral palsy is not always preventable but we must remember there are many causes of cerebral palsy that can be avoided with care and attention. Never forget you hold the life and future of a child in your hands when they are in your care, it is a responsibility not to be taken lightly. Think seriously before putting your child in the care of another person and if you notice any changes or abnormalities in your child's physical behaviors and movements consult a doctor immediately. Babies and children are incredibly precious and should always be dealt with as such.