Spina Bifida: A Birth Defect of the Spine, and How Folic Acid Helps Prevent It

Spina bifida is a neural tube defect — a type of birth defect of the brain, spine or spinal cord. It happens when the spinal column of the fetus does not close completely during the first month of pregnancy, which can damage the nerves and spinal cord.

Finding it

Screening tests during pregnancy can check for spina bifida. Sometimes it is found only after the baby is born.

Effects

Symptoms vary from person to person. Most people with spina bifida have normal intelligence. Some need aids such as braces, crutches or wheelchairs. They may have:

• learning difficulties;
• urinary and bowel problems;
• hydrocephalus, a buildup of fluid in the brain.

Cause and prevention

The exact cause is unknown, but spina bifida seems to run in families. Taking folic acid can lower the risk of having a baby with it. Folic acid is in most multivitamins, and women who could become pregnant should take it every day.

Sources

• MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine, "Spina Bifida," drawing on the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. https://medlineplus.gov/spinabifida.html
• Rewritten in hubnx's own words.