Spina bifida

Overview

Spina bifida ranges from hidden forms with no symptoms to open spine defects needing surgery after birth.

Many children need help with walking and bladder control.

Symptoms

Common signs:

• Back opening at birth

Less common

• Leg weakness
• Bladder problems

Look up a symptom: Leaking stool or bowel accidents · Muscle weakness in arms or legs · Numb or tingling leg or foot

When to get medical care

Causes

Neural tube defect.

Does it spread or run in families?

• It isn't contagious. You can't catch it from someone else.

Who is more likely to get it

• Babies of mothers with low folic acid: Higher risk
• Babies of mothers with diabetes or obesity: Higher risk

Possible complications

• Hydrocephalus (fluid on the brain): Common
• Urinary tract infection (UTI): From bladder problems

Diagnosis

A clinician asks about your symptoms and may order tests.

The exam

A physical exam.

Tests

Tests, if needed:

• Prenatal ultrasound:

Treatment

Treatment depends on the cause and how severe it is.

Self-care

• Care team follow-up
• Use a care team that includes neurosurgery and urology

Prevention

To lower your risk or catch problems early:

• Folic acid

Which doctor treats this

• Start with your primary care provider (family doctor or internist).
• They may send you to a medical geneticist (genetics doctor).

Living with it

• Keep a simple diary of symptoms, triggers, and medicines to bring to visits.
• Bring a list of your medicines and questions to each visit.
• Stay active in ways that feel good to you.
• Get enough sleep and manage stress.
• Long-term illness can affect mood. Tell your doctor if you feel down or anxious.

Support groups and helplines

• Genetic and Rare Diseases Information Center (GARD): Free NIH information on rare diseases, including where to find experts and patient groups.
• National Organization for Rare Disorders (NORD): Patient groups, help finding care, and aid programs for rare diseases.

Back to school, work, or sports

• Most people can keep working or going to school.
• Ask about changes that help, like extra breaks or a flexible schedule. Workers may be covered by the ADA. Students may get a 504 plan.

Children, pregnancy, and older adults

• Women who could get pregnant: Take folic acid daily.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

• If you're pregnant or planning to be, tell your prenatal provider about this condition.
• Don't start or stop any medicine on your own. Some are safe in pregnancy and some need to be changed.
• Ask before taking any pain reliever. The FDA advises avoiding ibuprofen and naproxen after 20 weeks unless your doctor says to.
• Breastfeeding: Most medicines are fine, but ask. The NIH LactMed database lists what's known about each one.

For caregivers

• Go to visits when you can and take notes.
• Keep a list of medicines, allergies, and doctors in one place.
• Learn the warning signs that need fast care.
• Take breaks and ask for help. Caregivers need care too.

Outlook

Many people live full lives.

Getting ready for your visit

Bring a list of your symptoms and medicines.

What to bring

• A list of your medicines and supplements
• Notes on when symptoms started and what makes them better or worse

Questions to ask

• What's causing this?
• What treatment do you recommend?
• What therapies does my child need?

Research studies

Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.

Search ClinicalTrials.gov for studies on Spina bifida