Understanding Neural Tube Defects (NTDs): Prevention Starts Before Pregnancy

A healthy baby’s brain and spinal cord begin forming within the first few weeks of pregnancy — often before a woman even knows she’s pregnant.
When something goes wrong during this early stage, it can lead to Neural Tube Defects (NTDs) — one of the most common yet preventable congenital conditions.

At Aashakiran IVF Pvt. Ltd. – North India’s most trusted and fastest-growing IVF chain, our expert team led by Dr. Asmita Mahla (Medical Director, 20+ years of experience) and Dr. Shivani (Gynae Specialist) emphasizes early prenatal care, genetic screening, and nutritional guidance to help every couple achieve a healthy pregnancy and baby.

🧬 What Are Neural Tube Defects?

The neural tube is the early structure that eventually develops into the baby’s brain, spine, and spinal cord.

Normally, this tube closes completely between the 3rd and 4th week of pregnancy.
If it doesn’t close properly, it results in Neural Tube Defects (NTDs) — serious abnormalities of the brain and spinal cord.

⚠️ Common Types of Neural Tube Defects

1. Spina Bifida

   • The spinal cord and backbone don’t close fully.

   • Severity varies from mild (spina bifida occulta) to severe (myelomeningocele).

   • Can cause paralysis, bladder/bowel problems, and physical disabilities.

2. Anencephaly

   • The upper part of the neural tube doesn’t close, leading to absence of major brain parts and skull.

   • Unfortunately, babies with this condition are usually stillborn or do not survive long after birth.

3. Encephalocele

   • A rare defect where brain tissue protrudes through an opening in the skull.

   • May be accompanied by neurological problems or developmental delays.

🧫 Causes and Risk Factors

Neural Tube Defects are multifactorial — caused by a combination of genetic, nutritional, and environmental factors.

Key risk factors include:

• Folic acid deficiency (most common cause)

• Family history of NTDs

• Uncontrolled diabetes in the mother

• Obesity before conception

• Certain medications (like anti-seizure drugs)

• Exposure to high temperatures in early pregnancy (fever, hot tubs, saunas)

🌿 How to Prevent Neural Tube Defects

The good news — most NTDs are preventable with simple preconception care:

✅ Folic Acid Supplementation:

• Take 400–800 mcg folic acid daily at least 3 months before conception.

• Continue throughout the first trimester.

• Women with previous NTD pregnancies may need higher doses (under medical advice).

✅ Healthy Diet:

• Include folate-rich foods — green leafy vegetables, citrus fruits, lentils, nuts, and fortified cereals.

✅ Preconception Counseling:

• Couples planning IVF or pregnancy should undergo genetic counseling and carrier screening at Aashakiran IVF to assess risk.

✅ Diabetes & Weight Management:

• Keep blood sugar and weight under control before conception.

✅ Avoid Harmful Drugs and Heat Exposure:

• Inform your doctor about all medications and avoid overheating during early pregnancy.

🩺 Diagnosis During Pregnancy

At Aashakiran IVF, we ensure early and accurate fetal screening using advanced methods:

• Maternal Serum Alpha-Fetoprotein (AFP) Test: Elevated levels indicate possible NTD.

• Targeted Fetal Ultrasound (Level II Scan): Detects open defects in brain and spine (usually around 18–22 weeks).

• Amniocentesis: Measures AFP and acetylcholinesterase levels in amniotic fluid for confirmation.

👶 Managing Neural Tube Defects

If an NTD is diagnosed, our team provides comprehensive counseling and fetal medicine support:

• Assessing severity and possible interventions.

• Guiding families about medical or surgical management options.

• Offering emotional and psychological support.

• Planning PGT (Preimplantation Genetic Testing) for future IVF pregnancies to reduce recurrence risk.

💜 Aashakiran IVF’s Role in Prevention & Early Detection

At Aashakiran IVF Pvt. Ltd., our mission is to give every parent the best chance at a healthy pregnancy. Through:

• Genetic and Preconception Screening

• Nutrition and Vitamin Counseling

• High-resolution Fetal Ultrasound & Fetal Medicine Support

• Advanced IVF with PGT

We help couples prevent birth defects and ensure optimal outcomes.

📍 Visit us at Kharar | Ludhiana | Amritsar | Bathinda
📞 Call: 872-8080-222 for appointments
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🌐 Learn more: www.aashakiranivf.com

✨ Aashakiran IVF – Where Every Life Begins with Care, Science, and Hope.