Neural Tube Defects

Neural Tube Defects (NTDs) are a common developmental abnormality, affecting up to 1 in 1000 pregnancies. It occurs when the neural tube fails to close properly after 28 days of pregnancy, resulting in a defect. The two most common NTDs are:

Spina Bifida: When the neural tube fails to close at the bottom, this results in a condition called Spina Bifida. The effects vary; however, it primarily affects the lower area of the body. This results in bladder and bowel problems, and in severe cases total paralysis of the legs. There are sometimes also difficulties with learning and behavioural problems.
Anencephaly: When the neural tube fails to close at the top, it results in a condition called Anencephaly. Unfortunately, this is always fatal.

Prevention:
The most effective way you can help protect against NTD’s is by taking a 400-microgram folic acid supplement as soon as you are looking to become pregnant. This reduces risk by 72%! If the pregnancy is unplanned, begin taking a supplement as soon as you feel there is a chance you might be pregnant. Eating folate rich foods may also be helpful, however make sure to still take a supplement.

Another modifiable risk factor in preventing NTDs is body weight. Individuals who are obese are more likely to have a pregnancy affected by an NTD, so it may be advantageous to lose weight before becoming pregnant. Obesity is also associated with other developmental abnormalities and could make it harder to conceive. For more risk factors such as epilepsy, diabetes, and family history of NTDs please talk to your GP or Care Team.
Remember, there is no 100% method to ruling out NTDs. At the moment, all we can do is lower the risk.

🔜 In the Future:
There are currently plans to make it mandatory to fortify bread products with folic acid with the aim of decreasing the prevalence of NTDs in the population. It is estimated this may reduce the amount of NTD affected pregnancies by 200-300 per year.

Retrieved from: Shine Charity: Lowering the chances of your baby having spina bifida or anencephaly
American Association of Neurological Surgeons: Spina Bifida
BDA: Folic Acid Fortification in the UK