Spina Bifida in Newborns: Causes, Early Detection & Treatment Options in India

ByRiddhi Roy
Updated: 31 Oct 2025, 1:00 pm

Spina bifida is a condition that impacts the baby's spinal growth during the initial stages of pregnancy. This blog explains the causes, early signs, and treatment options available in India for spina bifida. It is backed by easy, evidence-based measures to avoid, like taking folic acid and getting regular prenatal screenings.

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Hearing phrases like 'spina bifida' in newborns can make any expectant parent anxious. It's natural. You might be thinking, 'What does this term actually mean for your baby’s health?' Or what you could have done differently, right? The good news is that this is treatable, especially with today’s medical care; outcomes are far better than they once were.
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Now the real question is: When exactly does spina bifida happen? It occurs when the baby's spine and spinal cord fail to contract properly in the primary month of pregnancy. This space in the spine may damage nerves or cause difficulty moving. Three common forms of spina bifida are:
  • Spina Bifida Occulta: Mild, often found incidentally during scans.
  • Meningocele: Fluid that pushes through a small gap in the spine.
  • Myelomeningocele: The most serious form, where part of the spinal cord is exposed.
Each form of spina bifida in newborns is unique. Some babies might require ongoing therapy, while the rest lead a healthy and happy life.

Risk Factors of Spina Bifida

The main risk factor of spina bifida isn’t always clear. It’s often a combination of factors like genetics, nutrition, and environment. Common risk factors include:
In India, folate deficiency is a widespread condition. According to the World Health Organisation (2023), taking folic acid before conception can prevent most cases of spina bifida in newborns.

How Common Is Spina Bifida in India?

Studies suggest that two to four babies per 1,000 births in India are affected by spina bifida in newborns. That’s higher than in countries with folic acid fortification programmes. However, awareness about folic acid and antenatal screening can significantly reduce the number of babies born with spina bifida in India.

How to Prevent Spina Bifida in Newborns?

Did you know the most encouraging part? Most cases of spina bifida can be prevented.
Doctors usually recommend taking 400 micrograms of folic acid every day, initially starting one month before conception and continuing through the first trimester. Nonetheless, if you’ve had a previous pregnancy affected by a neural tube defect, your doctor may recommend a higher dose of 5 mg.
Folate sources naturally help prevent spina bifida. Add more spinach, lentils, citrus fruits, and fortified cereals to your diet. If you have diabetes or take medication regularly, consult your doctor before conceiving.

Early Detection During Pregnancy

Early detection gives families time to plan and prepare. Spina bifida is usually detected through:
  • Mid-trimester ultrasound (18–22 weeks): identifies spinal and cranial abnormalities.
  • The maternal serum alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) test checks for markers of neural tube defects.
  • Foetal MRI: confirms the diagnosis when needed.
Once spina bifida is confirmed, a fetal medicine specialist and paediatric neurosurgeon will discuss the next steps. Therefore, early diagnosis helps ensure the baby receives immediate care after birth.

Numerous Treatment Alternatives in India

There are now several contemporary treatments available in India for babies born with spina bifida. Physicians and surgeons work closely to ensure that every newborn receives the best care possible from the start.
  • Neonatal Surgery: Within 48 hours of the baby's birth, neonatal surgery takes place. During this procedure, doctors carefully close the baby's back opening to protect the spinal cord and reduce the risk of infection. It's a careful, time-sensitive procedure that improves the likelihood of your baby's recovery and helps protect their nerves from further damage.
  • Hydrocephalus Condition Management: Most of the babies with spina bifida develop hydrocephalus, a condition in which fluid accumulates around the brain. To manage this, doctors insert a tiny tube called a shunt, which allows the liquid to drain safely. As your baby grows older, this helps the brain to develop and function normally by relieving pressure on it.
  • Physiotherapy and Long-Term Care: While rehabilitation is essential, therapies like occupational therapy help them move and play independently, while physiotherapy boosts their strength and mobility.
  • Foetal Surgery (Another Option Emerging): Some hospitals, abroad and now a few in India, perform foetal surgery to repair spina bifida before birth. Though complex, it can improve outcomes in select cases.

Living with Spina Bifida in Newborns

Life with spina bifida in newborns may begin with uncertainty, but it’s filled with resilience. Many children go to school, make friends, and participate in sports. Some children attend school, make new friends, and take part in sports. With proper care, consistent therapy, and strong family support, they rise above. Support groups like the Spina Bifida Association of India offer counselling and connect families for guidance. However, the journey may be different, but it’s not without joy.

Finding the Right Care

If your baby is diagnosed with spina bifida in newborns:
  • Ask for a referral to a tertiary hospital with paediatric neurosurgery.
  • Choose a multidisciplinary team of neonatologists, physiotherapists, urologists, and counsellors.
  • Keep track of appointments and progress.
  • Join support groups for advice and comfort.
Spina bifida is a serious condition, but it's preventable as well. To protect your baby's spine, intake of folic acid before pregnancy, attending antenatal screening, and following medical advice are a must.
If you're the one who is planning a pregnancy, consult your doctor about folic acid today. One small step can protect your baby's future permanently!
Whether you’re pregnant, a new mom, or navigating postpartum, you don’t have to do it alone. Join our support group to connect, share, and support one another.

FAQs on Spina Bifida in Newborns: Causes, Early Detection & Treatment Options in India

  1. Can the spina bifida condition in newborns be detected during pregnancy?
    Yes. Ultrasound scans and AFP blood tests between 18 and 22 weeks can identify it early.
  2. Can it be prevented?
    Most cases can be prevented by taking folic acid before and during early pregnancy.
  3. What treatments are available in India?
    Spina bifida can be treated in major hospitals with neonatal surgery, physical therapy, and rehabilitation.
  4. Will my child be able to walk?
    Many children with spina bifida can walk with therapy and mobility aids.
  5. Can my child live an everyday life?
    Yes. With the proper care, children with spina bifida can live happily and independently.
Disclaimer: Approved by: Dr Gurleen Sikka, Lead Consultant, Dept of Neonatology & Paediatrics at the CK Birla Hospital®, Delhi