Understanding Spina Bifida: The Role of Folic Acid in Prevention
By Patricia Olney, MS, CGC
The journey of Rebecca and Daniel, parents of two children born with spina bifida, highlights the unexpected challenges and critical decisions faced by families affected by this condition. Their story begins with the birth of their daughter, Sarah, in 1989. Despite a healthy pregnancy, Sarah was born preterm with a severe birth defect, leaving Rebecca and Daniel in shock and seeking answers.
Spina bifida, a type of neural tube defect (NTD), occurs when the neural tube does not close completely. Myelomeningocele, the most serious form, involves a sac of fluid with part of the spinal cord protruding through an opening in the spine. This condition typically develops in the first month of pregnancy, often before a woman knows she is pregnant.
Two years later, Rebecca and Daniel had another daughter, Emma, who was born with a less severe form of spina bifida. This experience prompted them to learn more about prevention and the role of folic acid, a water-soluble B vitamin essential for reducing the risk of NTDs. Foods naturally high in folic acid include leafy vegetables, fruits, beans, and meat, but most women need supplements to meet recommended intakes.
In 1991, the U.S. Public Health Service recommended women with a history of NTD-affected pregnancies consume 4 milligrams of folic acid daily when planning to conceive. By 1992, this advice extended to all women of childbearing age, recommending 0.4 mg daily to reduce the risk of NTDs. Since 1998, folic acid has been added to many foods, leading to significant declines in NTDs globally.
Despite these advancements, Rebecca and Daniel’s story underscores the importance of spreading awareness about folic acid’s benefits. With half of U.S. pregnancies unplanned, daily folic acid intake is crucial for all women of childbearing age to prevent serious birth defects.
For more information or a personalized risk assessment, contact MotherToBaby toll-FREE at (866) 626-6847 or email an expert. MotherToBaby is affiliated with the international non-profit Organization of Teratology Information Specialists (OTIS), which provides evidence-based information to mothers and healthcare professionals.
About the Author: Patricia Olney, MS, is a certified genetic counselor at MotherToBaby Georgia, Emory University, with over 25 years of experience. She is dedicated to educating families about pregnancy risks and the importance of folic acid in preventing neural tube defects.
