Induced Multiple Congenital Anomalies (MCAs) in neonates: A case report

Abstract

The case of a 28 year old pregnant female student of a tertiary institution in Ondo State, Nigeria, who presented at the University of Medical Sciences Teaching Hospital, Ondo City, Ondo State, with an ultrasound diagnosis of foetal hydrocephalous. Further clinical examination prompted an emergency lower segment caesarean section and upon delivery, the baby presented with Multiple Congenital Anomalies (MCAs), which included talipes equinovarus, omphalocele, median cleft lip and palate, and hydrocephalous. Although several incidences of MCA’s have been reported, there existed however, suggestive factors that may account for the MCA case in focus. Factors of interest like her unmarried/studentship status, herbal product usage, and refusal to ingest folic acid medication as appropriate, suggested an induced MCA following a failed attempt to terminate an unwanted pregnancy. The case depicts a growing trend in our population, regarding ill-advised abortion induction among women, despite its dire consequences. It is our recommendation therefore, that healthcare workers saddled with the care of pregnant women and neonates, must embark on a proper but aggressive documentation of the trend, while also enhancing efforts in Reproductive Healthcare Education (RHE).