Causes of Cerebral Palsy

Cerebral palsy is a group of disorders that hinder control of movement. It is caused by an injury to the brain during pregnancy, around the time of birth, or shortly after birth. This brain damage may be caused by several factors depending on the type, the onset, and the health history of mother and child. Cerebral palsy is either congenital (present at birth) or acquired after birth.

Cerebral Palsy is usually caused by an injury to the brain during pregnancy, around the time of birth, or shortly after. It can result from a variety of conditions –

•  Infection During Pregnancy – rubella, cytomegalovirus, and toxoplasmosis can cause severe damage to the nervous system of the fetus and result in cerebral palsy.
•  Jaundice – severe jaundice can result in brain damage
•  Rh Incompatibility – can cause jaundice This is a condition where the mother's immune system attacks the fetus
•  Oxygen Shortage – a shortage of oxygen during birth can cause brain damage to the child.
•  Stroke – a stroke in the fetus can occur if the mother suffers from coagulation disorders
•  Toxicity – drug or alcohol use can result in brain damage
•  Bleeding – bleeding in the brain of the infant after birth can cause brain damage
•  Kidney/Urinary Tract Infections – can also lead to brain damage