Signs and symptoms of spina bifida vary by type and severity, and also between individuals. 
Spina bifida occulta. Typically, there aren't any signs or symptoms because the spinal nerves aren't involved. But you can sometimes see signs on the newborn's skin above the spinal problem, including a tuft of hair, a small dimple or a birthmark. Sometimes, these skin marks can be signs of an underlying spinal cord issue that can be discovered with MRI or spinal ultrasound in a newborn.
Meningocele. This type may cause problems with bladder and bowel function.
Myelomeningocele. In this severe type of spina bifida:

The spinal canal remains open along several vertebrae in the lower or middle back
Both the membranes and the spinal cord or nerves protrude at birth, forming a sac
Tissues and nerves usually are exposed, though sometimes skin covers the sac

