Microcephaly

primary microcephaly, secondary microcephaly

What is microcephaly?

Microcephaly is a rare condition where a person’s head is smaller than expected. Either a baby is born with a smaller head than normal (primary), or a baby’s head is the expected size at birth, but then stops growing (secondary).

What causes microcephaly?

There are a few potential causes of microcephaly, such as infections during pregnancy (Zika virus) or genetic abnormalities. There is no treatment, but early intervention can improve the person’s quality of life.

What are the symptoms of microcephaly?

Symptoms that can be associated with microcephaly include:

– seizures
– balance issues
– hearing loss
– vision problems

Are you affected by Microcephaly?

If you’re affected by microcephaly, The Brain Charity can support you.

We are the only charity in the UK to be here for every one of the more than 600 different neurological conditions in existence. Individually, many are rare, but combined, they affect 1 in 6 people.

We provide practical help on all aspects of living with microcephaly, emotional support such as counselling, phone befriending and group therapy and social activities to people with microcephaly from all over the UK from our centre in Liverpool.

Looking to talk to someone?

Phone us

Contact The Brain Charity now

Our friendly Information & Advice Officers are here to help. We endeavour to respond to all enquiries within 10 working days.

0800 008 6417

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Caring for someone affected by Microcephaly

Microcephaly is a lifelong condition. Depending on the severity of their microcephaly, some babies will need treatment and care to manage other health problems that may arise. People with mild microcephaly will often only experience a smaller head.

We support carers, friends and family too

Are you a carer for or relative of someone with microcephaly? It’s just as important for you to look after your own physical and mental wellbeing too.

The Brain Charity provides free support for carers, friends and family of people with any form of neurological condition, including microcephaly, from anywhere in the UK.

We also run an additional carers advocacy service for all carers in Liverpool, regardless of which type of condition the person they care for has.

You don’t need to be a formal or registered carer

We can help you even if you don’t view yourself as a formal carer or claim Carer’s Allowance. Find out some of the ways we support carers below.

Carer support from The Brain Charity in Liverpool Practical help

Support for carers

All The Brain Charity's services are free for carers and family members of people with neurological conditions too.
Counsellling at The Brain Charity in Liverpool Emotional support

Free counselling and mental health support

Struggling with your mental health? Find someone to talk to about how you're feeling at The Brain Charity.
View all

Other resources

The Brain Charity's library

The library at the Brain Charity has a range of resources on disability related issues.

Living with a rare condition.

Support groups

Parents of Children with Microcephaly Facebook Support Group

MASSChildMicrocephaly

Other charities

Cerebra (charity for children with neurological conditions)

Website: cerebra.org.uk

Helpline (freephone): 0800 328 1159