Information about specific actions taken towards deformed births in ancient Greece are sparse. As in Babylon, most children would have died of natural causes. Others were exposed to nature to die.

The harsh quality of life in ancient societies helps to explain why abandonment was a reasonable choice.  Disease, war, and constant work shortened the life expectancy of even healthy individuals, and parents did not often have the resources to care for a disabled child.  If the child did live, he or she would be subjected to constant harassment and probably be unable to marry or work.