Folic acid and Spina Bifida?

 
Even though folate is found in foods such as liver, leafy green vegetables and whole grain bread, it’s recommended you start taking a daily 400mcg folic acid (the synthetic form of folate) before trying to conceive. As soon as you find out you’re pregnant, switch to a daily 600mcg supplement.

What are the benefits

All babies are at risk of a neural tube defect, such as spina bifida, which affect the development of the brain and spinal cord. Most of these defects occur in the first 12 weeks of pregnancy, which is why it’s vital to start taking folic acid before you’re pregnant. Folic acid plays a large role in cell growth and development as well as tissue formation and has been shown to reduce your baby’s risk of a neural tube defect.

What is spina bifida

Spina bifida is a condition that occurs when one or more of the vertebrae in the spine don't close properly, leaving the nerves in the spine unprotected. This can cause damage to your baby’s central nervous system. There are varying degrees of severity with spina bifida – in mild cases there may be a small dimple or hair growth on the back that rarely causes any disability and can even remain undiscovered. More serious cases leave the spinal cord tissue and nerves unprotected and can result in problems with bladder and bowel control, paralysis and hydrocephalus (fluid on the brain which can be drained via a permanent shunt).

Who’s at risk

- Women who’ve already had a baby with a neural tube defect (although 95 percent of them occur in women with no previous history). Studies show that moms who’ve had one child with a neural tube defect can lower their risk of having another by 72 percent if they take a folic acid supplement.

- Women who’ve had twins or multiples, or who’ve had babies close together, since this may result in vitamin and mineral deficiencies

- Women who take medication to control seizures.

- Women who are obese or diabetic.

How can I avoid it?

Start taking a folic acid supplement at least a month before you’re thinking of trying for a baby. See also diet for a healthy pregnancy. 

The information in this feature is intended for educational purposes only. If you have any concerns about your health, the health of your child or the health of someone you know, please consult with a doctor or other healthcare professional.