Spina bifida is a birth defect that involves the incomplete
development of the spinal cord or its coverings. The term spina
bifida comes from Latin and literally means "split" or "open"
spine. Spina bifida occurs at the end of the first month of
pregnancy when the two sides of the embryo's spine fail to join
together, leaving an open area. In some cases, the spinal cord
or other membranes may push through this opening in the back.
The condition usually is detected before a baby is born and
treated right away. Types of Spina Bifida The causes of spina
bifida are largely unknown. Some evidence suggests that genes
may play a role, but in most cases there is no familial
connection. A high fever during pregnancy may increase a woman's
chances of having a baby with spina bifida. Women with epilepsy
who have taken the drug valproic acid to control seizures may
have an increased risk of having a baby with spina bifida. The
two forms of spina bifida are spina bifida occulta and spina
bifida manifesta. Spina bifida occ