Research shows shown that women who take folic acid before and in the early stages of pregnancy are much less like to have a baby with a neural tube defect (NTD) like Spina Bifida, or to have a miscarriage or stillbirth as a result of an NTD.
NTD occurs when a baby’s spine fails to form correctly in the womb. Spina Bifida is the most widely known NTD and happens when one or more of the bones in the spine are not yet fully developed. This leaves a gap in the spine resulting in the damage to the nerves and spinal cord. The effects vary but many people with Spina Bifida will have some paralysis and so will need aids to enable them to walk or will need to use a wheelchair. Spina Bifida can also affect the nerves controlling the bowel and bladder.
