What are they?
- Neural tube defects are defects of the brain, spine, or spinal cord. These types of defects happen in the first month of pregnancy. The two most common types are spina bifida and anencephaly
- Spina bifida: fetal spinal column doesn’t close completely. There is usually nerve damage that causes some paralysis of legs
- Anencephaly: most of the brain and skull don’t develop. These babies are usually stillborn or die shortly after birth.
Causes:
- The exact causes of neural tube defects are unknown so far, but we do know that people are at greater risk of having an infant with one of these defects if they are obese, have poorly controlled diabetes, and take certain antiseizure medications
Prevention:
- Folic acid is the main way to prevent neural tube defects. Folic acid is found in leafy green veggies, fruits, beans, peas, nuts, bread, cereals, and other grain products. Dietary supplements are also available.
