Neural Tube Defects: Causes, Prevention, and What You Need to Know

When the neural tube—the early structure that becomes the brain and spinal cord—doesn’t close properly during early pregnancy, it leads to neural tube defects, serious congenital conditions that affect the development of the brain and spine. Also known as NTDs, these defects occur in the first few weeks of pregnancy, often before a woman even knows she’s pregnant. The two most common types are spina bifida, a condition where the spine doesn’t close fully, leaving nerves exposed and anencephaly, a fatal condition where parts of the brain and skull are missing. These aren’t rare: about 3,000 pregnancies in the U.S. are affected each year, and many are preventable.

One of the biggest known factors is low levels of folic acid, a B vitamin critical for proper neural tube formation. Studies show that taking 400 micrograms of folic acid daily before conception and during early pregnancy cuts the risk of neural tube defects by up to 70%. Yet, many women don’t get enough from diet alone—fortified foods like bread and cereal help, but supplements are the most reliable source. Other contributors include genetics, uncontrolled diabetes, obesity, and certain seizure medications. It’s not just about what you eat—it’s about what you take before you know you’re pregnant.

That’s why prenatal care starts before pregnancy. Doctors don’t wait for a positive test to talk about folic acid. They ask about your plans, your meds, your health history. Even if you’re not trying to get pregnant, if you’re of childbearing age, taking folic acid is one of the simplest, most effective things you can do for your future children. And if you’ve had a previous pregnancy affected by a neural tube defect, your doctor will likely recommend a higher dose—up to 4,000 micrograms—before trying again.

What you’ll find in the posts below isn’t just theory. You’ll see real-world advice on how to manage medication risks during pregnancy, how to spot hidden interactions between supplements and prenatal needs, and how everyday habits—from where you store pills to what you eat—affect early development. These aren’t abstract medical concepts. They’re daily choices that can change outcomes. And they’re backed by the same kind of clear, no-fluff guidance you’ll find in every article here.