Diagnosis

Spina bifida & Anencephaly

Diagnosis of both these NTDs are carried out during pregnancy, or at birth by physical examination (observing any of the discussed signs and symptoms). Antenatal blood tests can indicate the condition and 90% of cases are picked up during ultrasound checks during pregnancy.

Also incresased levels of the alpha fetoprotein (AFP) will be found in the mothers blood if the baby has spina bifida. However, this is not always the case and cannot be used as the only diagnosis method as high levels of AFP does not always indicate your baby having spina bifida.

Amniocentesis is a test that is carried out during pregnancy. A sample of amniotic fluid is taken using a needle. This procedure shows the content of the amniotic fluid and also indicates levels of AFP. There is a 1% chance that this method will cause a miscarriage.