Spina bifida is one of the most common disabling birth defects in the United States. It is a major birth defect of the baby's spine occurring when the spine and bones of the back do not completely during the first few weeks of pregnancy. Because they are not closed all the way, the spinal cord and bones of the back do not form, as they should. Instead, a sac of fluid protrudes through an opening in the baby's back. Quite often part of the spinal cord is damaged and in the protruding sac.

While children born with spina bifida can expect to live full and meaningful lives, they often need many surgeries and have lifelong disabilities. Some children will need to use crutches, braces, or wheelchairs to get around if their lower extremities don’t function. Some might have to wear protective clothing or learn special techniques to empty their bladders and bowels if they suffer incontinence because of their spina bifida. They may need a shunt to prevent fluid from putting pressure on their brain and they may suffer from learning disabilities.

Not every child born with spina bifida has the same needs. Some children have more severe problems than others do. For that reason if you are considering adopting an infant or child with spina bifida you may want to ask questions about the severity of the particular child. You can see if support groups are available in your area for you and your adopted child.

Most cases of spina bifida can be prevented, but women need to plan before they even think about getting pregnant. Because spina bifida usually happens before a mother realizes she is pregnant. Women need to take folic acid every day. Any woman who could possibly get pregnant should take 400 micrograms (400 μg or 0.4 mg) of folic acid daily in the form of a vitamin or in foods that have been enriched with folic acid. Breads and cereal products in the USA are enriched with folic acid for this reason.

Spina Bifida Association

National Center for Birth Defects and Developmental Disabilities

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