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Spina Bifida

Home > Illnesses and Disabilities Home > Types of Illnesses & Disabilities > Spina Bifida

Spina bifida is the most common disabling birth defect in the United States. It happens when the spine of the fetus does not form properly during the first month of pregnancy. As a result, nerves controlling leg movements and other functions die.

People with spina bifida have varying degrees of paralysis of the legs. They often need devices such as leg braces, crutches, or wheelchairs to get around. People with spina bifida also may have problems controlling urination and defecation. Most people with spina bifida are of normal intelligence, although most have some form of a learning disability.

The cause of spina bifida is unknown. Genes may play a role. Not getting enough folic acid (one of the B vitamins) during early pregnancy also appears to be a key factor. All women who are able to get pregnant should take 400 micrograms (mcg) of folic acid daily before getting pregnant and during the first three months of pregnancy. (Women who have spina bifida should take 800 mcg folic acid each day). The easiest way to get enough folic acid is to take a multivitamin pill containing folic acid each day. You also can eat foods high in folic acid, such as:

• green leafy vegetables (spinach, turnip greens, collard greens)
• fruits (oranges, cantaloupe, honeydew melon, avocado)
• juices (orange, pineapple, tomato)
• beans and peas
• nuts and peanut butter
• breakfast cereals or grain products fortified with folic acid

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Content last updated May 15, 2008.