What is Spina Bifida?

 

Spina Bifida (SB) is a condition that happens before or during birth. It means that the spine and spinal cord do not develop properly in the early weeks of pregnancy. This can cause a split in the backbone.

It usually affects the lower back, but in rare cases, it can affect the neck or upper spine.

There are three main types of Spina Bifida:

1. Spina Bifida Occulta (mildest)

2. Meningocele (less common)

3. Myelomeningocele (most severe)

Spina Bifida happens when the neural tube, which forms the spine and brain, does not close fully during early pregnancy.

---

💡 Key Facts

• Spina Bifida is different for everyone.

• Some people have mild symptoms, others have serious disabilities.

• Around 2,875 babies are born with Spina Bifida each year in the USA.

• People may need medical treatment, physical therapy, and personal care depending on how severe the condition is.

---

🧠 Types of Spina Bifida

1. Spina Bifida Occulta (Hidden)

• The mildest and most common form.

• Often called the “hidden” type – the spine has a small gap, but the spinal cord is not damaged.

• Usually no symptoms and people may not know they have it.

• It is covered by skin, and often found later in life during scans for other reasons.

• No treatment is usually needed, but some may develop symptoms over time.

---

2. Meningocele

• A sac of fluid pushes out through an opening in the back.

• No spinal cord inside the sac, so nerve damage is less likely.

• May cause weak legs, bladder or bowel issues, and risk of infection.

• Treatment often includes surgery and physical therapy.

• Some people may live with few to moderate disabilities.

---

3. Myelomeningocele (Severe Form)

• The most serious type of Spina Bifida.

• A part of the spinal cord and nerves come through the open spine, forming a sac outside the body.

• May cause severe nerve damage, paralysis, and loss of feeling in the lower body.

• Can also cause bladder and bowel problems, infections, and hydrocephalus (fluid on the brain).

• Babies often need surgery right after birth, and may need ongoing care and support.

---

🖻 How It Affects the Body

• Some people may not be able to walk, while others can walk with support.

• May affect speech, movement, bladder and bowel control.

• Can cause a condition called neurogenic bladder, where the muscles of the bladder do not work properly.

• One type is called detrusor sphincter dyssynergia (DSD), where the bladder and the muscles don’t work together, causing accidents or difficulty urinating.

---

❤️ Support and Care

• People with Spina Bifida may need help with:

  • Mobility (e.g., using wheelchairs or walkers)

  • Personal care (bathing, dressing, toileting)

  • Medical treatments and therapies

  • Speech or learning support in some cases

• Some families may need a lot of support, while others manage with less help. Every person and family is different.

---