Spina Bifida

Prevention

Although many factors contribute to the development of spina bifida, research has found that folic acid (vitamin B-12), a nutrient found in some green, leafy vegetables, nuts, beans, citrus fruits and fortified breakfast cereals, can help reduce the risk of neural tube defects.

Folic acid plays an essential role in a baby's development. Studies suggest that folic acid — taken in supplement form at least one month prior to conception and during the first trimester of pregnancy — reduces the risk of spina bifida and other neural tube defects by 40 percent to 80 percent in women who have no history of the condition.

A dose of 0.4 milligrams (mg) per day is recommended for ALL women of childbearing age, whether considering pregnancy or not, since most pregnancies are unplanned. For women who have had one baby affected with spina bifida, a dose of 4 mg of folic acid is recommended, starting three months prior to conception.

Genetic counseling is recommended prior to the next conception for any couple with one incidence of spina bifida.