How to Test for Spina Bifida

Spina bifida is a birth defect where the spinal chord and its coverings do not develop completely. The cause of spina bifida is unknown; however, there is speculation that genes may be involved. Children born with spina bifida often have problems with their bowel and bladder control, develop ADHD (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder), and other learning difficulties. The prevention of this is unknown; however, expecting mothers can test for this condition in their unborn babies.

Difficulty:

Moderately Challenging

Instructions

1. Go to your physician to inquire about the use of prenatal tests so that he or she can see if your baby has spinal bifida.

2. Inquire about the AFP test or the alpha-fetoprotein test that is usually administered between the 16th-18th week of pregnancy. This test measures the amount of alpha-fetoprotein that the fetus produces. This test is done by measuring the amount of AFP in the mother's blood. If the test reads high in the mother, it is tested again since many false positive tests are observed. If there are multiple high readings of AFP, multiple tests will be done to confirm the diagnosis.

3. Undergo an ultrasound. Ask your physician about this non-invasive sort of testing to see if your baby has spinal bifida. An ultrasound can detect if your baby has spinal bifida only in some cases.

4. Ask for an amniocentesis. An amniocentesis can help to see if a baby has spinal bifida. This test is done by inserting a need in the mother's belly and into the uterus to collect fluid that is tested for AFP. This procedure is rather invasive and has the possibility to harm the mother and fetus; therefore, proceed with caution.