It happens during the first 28 days of pregnancy, often before you know you’re pregnant.
Even though there is no known cause, spina bifida can be avoided with some simple measures to follow:
Take a vitamin with 400 mcg (0.4 mg) folic acid every day pre-pregnancy which could reduce the incidence by up to 75%. Do not take any prescription and over-the-counter drugs, herbal and dietary supplements and vitamins without medical supervision. Treat any fevers immediately with Paracetamol and inform your birth provider. Avoid using hot tubs or saunas that overheat your body. If you have diabetes or obesity, be sure to manage these conditions before you get pregnant.
Pre-pregnancy planning and counseling with your birth provider is very important for a healthy pregnancy and baby
