What Causes Spina Bifida?
The exact cause of spina bifida remains a mystery. No one
knows what disrupts complete closure of the neural tube,
causing a malformation to develop. Scientists suspect
genetic, nutritional, and environmental factors play a role.
Research studies indicate that insufficient intake of folic
acid—a common B vitamin—in the mother’s diet is a key factor
in causing spina bifida and other neural tube defects.
Prenatal vitamins that are prescribed for the pregnant
mother typically contain folic acid as well as other
vitamins.
