What causes mermaid syndrome?
Daniel Santos
Updated on February 28, 2026
The exact cause of sirenomelia is unknown. Researchers believe that both environmental and genetic factors may play a role in the development of the disorder. Most cases appear to occur randomly for no apparent reason (sporadically), which suggests environmental factors or a new mutation.
What are symptoms of mermaid syndrome?
What are the symptoms?
- absent tailbone.
- anal atresia.
- foot abnormalities that include the absence of feet or feet rotated outward.
- gastrointestinal abnormalities.
- heart malformations.
- partly or completely missing sacrum.
- spina bifida.
- underdeveloped or absent kidneys.
Can you live with mermaid syndrome?
Most babies with mermaid syndrome do not survive, living a few days at most. There have been a few cases of surgical separation of the legs. A team of doctors from different specialties will help plan and provide the treatment and care of babies with mermaid syndrome, as well as supporting the family.Can you be born with a mermaid tail?
The mermaid syndrome (sirenomelia) is an extremely rare anomaly, an incidence of 1 in 100,000 births, in which a newborn born with legs joined together featuring a mermaid-like appearance (head and trunk like humans and tail like fish), and in most cases die shortly after birth.How is mermaid syndrome inherited?
Causes. The exact cause of sirenomelia is unknown. Researchers believe that both environmental and genetic factors may play a role in the development of the disorder. Most cases appear to occur randomly for no apparent reason (sporadically), which suggests environmental factors or a new mutation.Mermaid Syndrome | Sirenomelia Causes and Symptoms
What are mermaid babies called?
An en caul birth, also known as a “mermaid birth” or “veiled birth”, is when the baby comes out still inside or partially wrapped in the amniotic sac. This happens in only 1 in 80,000 births, making it extremely rare. 1. It might look like your newborn is completely gift-wrapped in a soft bubble.What is a good name for a mermaid?
75 Mermaid Names for Your Little Girl
- Adella - one of Ariel's mermaid sisters, this name means “noble.”
- Aerwyna - this Old English name, pronounced ERW-ih-NAH, means “friend of the sea.”
- Amatheia - want your little mermaid to be a friend of those with fins?