Out of every 1000 births, 12 to 14 babies are born with NTDs in Pakistan which surpasses the records in Western countries. To know how to treat this life-threatening defect and its causes, we must know the roots of neural tube defects and how 400 mcg of folic acid can save your baby.
we must know the roots and what neural tube defects are.
What NTD is?
Neural tube defects mostly occur in two states.
Spina bifida: This occurs due to improper bone or spinal cord formation, leaving a gap or opening. Spina bifida can lead to learning and developmental impairments and in some cases paralysis, experienced by some infants.
Anencephaly: This condition happens when there is a missing part of the brain, not fully developed during the 1st trimester ( critical phase of pregnancy because of the development of the brain). Most infants die right after birth due to anencephaly.
Factors lead to Neural tube defects
Being an underdeveloped country, Pakistan faces major issues regarding malnutrition. Neural tube defects also happen due to malnutrition and the following factors:
- Unprotective intercourse
- Underweight mothers
- Anemic mothers
- Young maternal age
- Low income and lack of education
Folate
Mostly women during pregnancy don’t get to know until their 1st trimester already ended and the phase where the CNS (Central Nervous System) develops ends, if there is a lack of folate, results in neural tube defect.
Folate also works as a game changer for those who already have a history of neural tube defect birth, taking 4000 mcg can reduce the risks of again getting pregnant with a baby with NTD.
Every girl with childbearing age should take a 400 mcg supplement of folate before 3, or 4 months of sexual intercourse or planning a pregnancy and during the first 3 months of pregnancy. Folate can also be taken from food such as:
- lentils, peas, and beans.
- Dark green leafy vegetables
- Nuts, like walnuts and peanuts
- Citrus fruits, like oranges and grapefruit
- Orange juice
Food fortified by folate can also be used as a good source. There are many products like fortified bread, flour, and cereals that can be used as a daily source of folate.
Other precautions
- Reach a balanced weight.
- Get treatment for health concerns including diabetes.
- Discuss all of your medications and supplements with your healthcare physician. This covers all over-the-counter, prescription, and herbal products as well as supplements.
Early in pregnancy, a high body temperature may raise the risk of non-thermal defects (NTDs), according to some studies. If you experience a fever in the first trimester of pregnancy, consult your doctor. Additionally, it’s advised to avoid using saunas or hot baths when pregnant. When using them, keep your usage to no more than ten minutes.
