Fetal neural tube defects are a matter of concern, poses many challenges for parents. DinoGPT's article will provide you with the most useful information from experts, At the same time, suggest effective early detection and prevention measures to help protect the health of the fetus as well as the pregnant mother..
What are fetal neural tube defects??
Fetal neural tube defects are a type of defect that arises in the neural tube, basic structures that develop from the embryo to form the brain and spine, does not develop or close properly.
The process of neural tube formation begins early in pregnancy and if not done properly, can lead to many health problems and serious disabilities in the fetus.
Common types of fetal neural tube defects
Fetal neural tube defects There are many types, Each type affects the development of the fetal spine and brain in a different way. Below are some common types of neural tube defects:
Split spinal deformity
This is a case where the neural tube that forms the spine and spinal cord does not close completely, causing damage to the internal spinal cord. Leading to problems such as paralysis of the lower body, difficulty moving, Difficulty urinating, increases intracranial pressure and can lead to death if severe.
Cranial malformations
Anencephaly is a case fetal neural tube defects most serious, The fetal brain is not fully developed and there is no skull. The fetus often dies in utero or shortly after birth.
Brain herniation defects, meninges
Occurs when part of the skull is missing, leading to herniation of fluid or brain tissue, The brain is exposed outside the skull and is only covered by skin. Can cause death or cause severe mental and neurological problems if treated.
Causes of neural tube defects in fetuses
Neural tube defects in fetuses have many causes, usually develops in the early stages of pregnancy when the fetal spine and brain are forming:
Folic Acid Deficiency
Folic acid is a B vitamin necessary for neural tube development. Folic acid deficiency can lead to failure of the neural tube to close properly, create conditions for the development of defects.
Chromosomal abnormalities
Chromosomal abnormalities are also the cause fetal neural tube defects. Chromosomal problems, as symptoms of Down syndrome, can cause neural tube defects.
Due to genetics and environment
Environmental pollution and genetic factors can increase the risk of developing neural tube defects. Smoking, Exposure to radiation and high temperatures can also affect your baby's development.
Due to illness and drug use in the mother
Diseases such as diabetes, epilepsy or use of certain medications during pregnancy, especially anticonvulsants, may cause increased risk of fetal neural tube defects. For example, diseases like rubella (German measles) during pregnancy can cause neural tube defects.
Methods for early detection of neural tube defects
Early detection measures fetal neural tube defects is an important process that helps identify and deal with this problem at each stage:
- First ultrasound at week 1 8-14: Ultrasound will focus on examining the fetal spine and brain to early detect problems related to spina bifida or other spinal deformities..
- Defect testing at week 1 19-20: Ultrasound will focus on examining the fetal spine and brain to early detect problems related to spina bifida or other spinal deformities..
- Test AFP levels in the second week of pregnancy 16-20: AFP is a protein produced by the fetus and easily tested in the mother's blood. Abnormal AFP levels can be a sign of many different problems, including neural tube defects.
- Take medicine to prevent birth defects: Folic acid supplementation, is an important preventative measure. This substance helps provide necessary nutrients for neural tube development and reduces the risk of birth defects.
How to prevent neural tube defects in the fetus?
Below are some important measures to help reduce the risk of neural tube defects in the fetus:
- Supplement folic acid: Start from the stage of preparing for pregnancy, Women should supplement folic acid. This is an important nutrient that helps the development of the neural tube. This is especially important during the early stages of pregnancy when the neural tube is developing.
- A nutritious diet: A nutritious diet is important to ensure the fetus gets all the nutrients it needs. Foods like broccoli, lane improvement, soybeans, red beans, black beans, avocado, Asparagus and citrus fruits... should be added to the diet.
- Avoid toxic elements: Pregnant women should avoid exposure to toxic substances such as tobacco, alcohol and pollutants. You should also limit exposure to chemicals that may pose a risk to fetal development.
- Weight control: Uncontrolled weight can increase your risk fetal neural tube defects. Pregnant women should maintain a healthy weight throughout pregnancy with the supervision of their doctor.
- Health care before and after pregnancy: Maintaining good health before pregnancy is important. If there are any problems, Women should discuss with their doctor to have the best health care plan.
Pediatric neural tube defects is a big risk for pregnant mothers. Supplementing folic acid and implementing early detection methods play an important role in reducing risks and protecting the overall health of the fetus from an early stage..
Hopefully the above article has helped parents play a decisive role in preventing and minimizing the impact of neural tube defects..
The article is evaluated by BS. Nguyen Ngoc Sang – Head of Kidney and Urology Module, Former Head of Pediatrics Department - Hai Phong University of Medicine and Pharmacy
