What is Spina Bifida?

Spina Bifida Occulta: Spina Bifida Occulta is the least serious and most common type. It is usually discovered only on X-Rays and Scans. Most people don’t become aware of their condition before birth.

Meningocele: The coverings of the spinal cord (meninges) pass back through the opening in the spine to form a cyst like swelling.

Myelomeningocele: If the spinal cord is enclosed in the cyst, the condition is called myelomeningocele. This is the most serious type of Spina Bifida.

The challenges that individuals with Spina Bifida face depends on the severity of the Spina Bifida.

If you have anymore questions, please email sbfsecretary@gmail.com or call/message the Spina Bifida Helpline – 7506070616

The exact cause is unknown, but factors like folic acid deficiency, genetics, and environmental influences may play a role.

While there is a slightly increased risk if a parent or sibling has Spina Bifida, most cases occur without a family history.

While not all cases are preventable, the risk can be significantly reduced if women of childbearing age take Folic Acid supplements daily before conception and during early pregnancy

*Please speak to your obstetrician or doctor about the dosage

Folic acid is a type of B vitamin (Vitamin B9) that your body needs to make healthy new cells. It is especially important during periods of rapid growth, such as pregnancy and infancy.

Folic acid helps prevent major birth defects of the baby’s brain and spine, known as neural tube defects (NTDs) — including Spina Bifida

Women who are planning to become pregnant should take folic acid every day, starting at least one month before conception and during the first trimester of pregnancy. Folic Acid can prevent up to 75% of Spina Bifida cases.

*If you’re planning to have a second child after having a child with Spina Bifida, it’s important to speak with your obstetrician about the recommended folic acid dosage.

If you have any questions regarding the information or you’d like to speak to a specialist, please email sbfsecretary@gmail.com or call/message the Spina Bifida Helpline – 7506070616

There is no cure, but early and ongoing care can help manage symptoms, improve function, and enhance quality of life.

Treatment depends on the type and severity but may include:

Further rehabilitation:

● Schooling

● Employment

● Marriage

● Mental Health

Yes! With proper medical care, therapy, education, and social support, individuals with Spina
Bifida can go to school, work, pursue relationships, and live fulfilling lives.

If you have anymore questions about Spina Bifida or you want to do a consult with a concerned specialist, please ask questions in the link below and we will get back to you!