A congenital heart defect (CHD) is a defect in the structure of the heart and great vessels which is present at birth. Many types of heart defects exist, most of which either obstruct blood flow in the heart or vessels near it, or cause blood to flow through the heart in an abnormal pattern.

Heart defects are among the most common birth defects and are the leading cause of birth defect-related deaths. Causes for congenital heart defects can be genetic, environmental, or both.

Treatment for children who have a CHD does not end with surgeries or medication while they’re young. Children who have heart defects need to see a cardiologist for the rest of their lives. They also need to remain mindful of their heart problems as their CHD could have complications, such as difficulty with pregnancy, increased risk of heart tissue infection (endocarditis), heart failure or heart valve problems.