What is a congenital disorder?

Health problems present from birth include any health condition that a baby is born with and are sometimes called birth defects, birth differences or congenital anomalies.

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Congenital heart disease

Congenital heart disease is a birth defect caused when your heart hasn't formed properly. It varies in severity from uncomplicated to serious.

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Spina bifida

Spina bifida is a birth defect that affects a baby's spine from early pregnancy. Having enough folate in your diet lowers your baby’s risk.

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Rubella (German measles)

Rubella (also known as German measles) is best prevented by the MMR vaccination. Learn more about its distinctive rash, other symptoms and treatments.

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Cleft lip and cleft palate

Cleft lip or palate happens when parts of the lip, upper jaw or roof of the mouth don't join properly early in pregnancy.

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UpBeat app

UpBeat is an app for teenagers with heart conditions (15 to 19 years) who are starting to manage their lives and health care more independently. It is a tool that helps young people with childhood heart disease (CHD) to engage with the health care transition process (moving from paediatric to adult care) and the self-management of their condition.

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Hydrocephalus

Hydrocephalus is caused by a build-up of cerebrospinal fluid in the brain. This fluid is essential, but too much can damage your brain.

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Spondylolisthesis

Spondylolisthesis is a problem with the back that can cause lower back pain and muscle tightness. Learn more about the causes, symptoms and treatment options.

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Thyroid medicines

Thyroid medicines treat thyroid disorders, including hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism. Read about how they work and their potential side effects.

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Aortic coarctation

Find out about aortic coarctation — a heart condition in which a section of the aorta, the main blood vessel from your heart, is narrowed.

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Chiari malformation

Chiari (or Arnold-Chiari) malformation occurs when part of the brain pushes into your spinal canal. Learn more about the symptoms and treatments here.

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Long QT syndrome

Long QT syndrome (LQTS) is a disorder of the heart's electrical system that can cause fast, chaotic heartbeats, called arrhythmias.

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Prostheses

Prostheses are artificial body parts designed to restore function or appearance. Basic prostheses are available through the public health system.

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Vitamin A and your health

Vitamin A (retinol) is important for your vision, skin and immune system. Most Australians can get enough vitamin A by eating a varied, healthy diet.

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Hip dysplasia

Hip dysplasia is usually detected in babies, but adolescents and adults may also experience symptoms. Find out more about the disorder here.

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Cri du chat syndrome

Cri du chat syndrome is a rare genetic disorder that causes a weak, high-pitched cry. Learn more about the symptoms of cri du chat syndrome here.

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Intersex variation

Intersex variations are caused by physical, hormonal or chromosomal differences. Learn more about intersex variation and what causes it here.

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Rhinoplasty (nose job)

Rhinoplasty (often called a 'nose job') is surgery to repair or reshape your nose. Learn about what to consider before having a nose job.

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Cerebral palsy

Cerebral palsy damages your nervous system affecting your movement and coordination. Read more about the causes and risk factors.

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Syphilis

Syphilis is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) that can cause serious health problems if left untreated. Find out more about syphilis here.

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Seizures

Seizures are due to abnormal electrical signals firing in the brain. There are many types, causes, triggers and treatments. Learn what to do here.

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