Prevention

Often the cause of cerebral palsy is not known, and nothing can be done to prevent it. However, some important causes of cerebral palsy can be prevented in many cases, including premature birth, low birth weight, infections, and head injuries.

• Seek appropriate prenatal care as early as possible in the pregnancy. Many women schedule a prepregnancy visit so they can be properly prepared for a healthy pregnancy. Appropriate care is available from physicians, physician assistants, nurse practitioners, and certified nurse-midwives.
  
  
• Avoid using cigarettes, alcohol, and illicit drugs during pregnancy: these increase your risk of premature delivery.
  
  
• Rubella (measles) during pregnancy or early in life is a cause of cerebral palsy. Testing for rubella immunity before you become pregnant allows you to be immunized, which protects both you and your baby from contracting this potentially devastating illness.
  
  
• Appropriate prenatal care includes testing for Rh factor. Rh incompatibility is easily treated but can cause brain damage and other problems if untreated.
  
  
• Routine vaccinations of babies can prevent serious infections such as meningitis that can lead to cerebral palsy.
  
  
• Make sure your child is restrained in a properly installed car seat and wears a helmet when riding on a bicycle.