Health Risks of Married Cousins to Consider

Married to a cousin is not uncommon. Some countries make marriage with cousins as a culture to strengthen family ties. However, there are some things that should be considered before deciding to marry a cousin, especially in terms of health. There are some risks that lurk children of married couples who are cousins. This risk is not only related to physical health, but also the mental health of children.

Health risks lurking

Health risks from marriage to relatives or family, including cousins, occur because of the same genetic structure. Some health risks that lurk children from married couples between cousins ​​are:

1. Birth defects

Although there are no genetic abnormalities in the family, marrying a cousin can increase the risk of giving birth to a baby with a congenital defect. The risk of giving birth to a baby with a congenital defect in couples married to cousins ​​is 2-3% higher, when compared to married couples without family ties.

2. Immune system disorders

Research shows that couples who marry cousins ​​are more at risk of giving birth to children with a genetic immunodeficiency (PID) genetic disorder. This genetic disorder can cause defects in the immune system, which makes children more susceptible to infections and autoimmune diseases.

3. Stillbirth

In addition to the risk of birth defects, research also shows that the risk of stillbirth in couples married to cousins ​​can increase. This risk can even increase if someone marries the first cousin (child of a father or mother's brother).

4. Mental disorders

Not only has an impact on physical health, the mental health of children from marriages with cousins ​​is also vulnerable to disruption. Research shows that children born from marriages with cousins ​​are more at risk of developing mood disorders and psychosis. Psychosis is a mental disorder that makes it difficult for someone to distinguish between reality and imagination. The decision to marry a cousin or not, is yours. But by knowing the risks, you and your partner can be more aware of any health risks that lurk your child later. For more information, you can consult a doctor about this.