Risk Of Spina Bifida

[rebeccaa]

hi-

I just found out I'm pregnant (only about 4 weeks) and I was diagnosed with celiac less than a year ago. I wasn't trying to conceive so I hadn't been taking vitamins or anything. My mom has celiac disease as well and my brother was born with Spina Bifida. I'm really worried that the same will happen with me and was wondering if anyone has some words of wisdom for me.

[flourgirl]

Hi! I'm not sure how much help I can be. My mom is Celiac (not diagnosed...but had many, many symptoms through her adult life). There are 8 of us siblings. My youngest brother had Spina Bifida. You may want to check your nutrient levels (blood test from your doc), and maybe you should start taking Calcium and D. I'm willing to bet that since you've been gluten-free for almost a year (?), and that you are in early stages of pregnancy, you can start a vitamin regimen and work carefully with your doctor you'll be fine. The only one who can really answer your questions (hopefully) would be your doctor. Good luck! Let us know what you find out.

[teemaree]

There is no single cause of spina bifida nor any known way to prevent it entirely. However, dietary supplementation with folic acid has been shown to be helpful in preventing spina bifida

dried beans, leaf vegetables and fruits.

Certain mutations in the gene VANGL1 are implicated as a risk factor for spina bifida: these mutations have been linked with spina bifida in some families with a history of spina bifida.

Genetic counseling and further genetic testing, such as amniocentesis, may be offered during the pregnancy , if they feel that you are at risk.

Please don't panic as yet...if you have been eating lots of vegetables and fruits, then you have been doing the right thing for your body and child before falling pregnant.

chin up....be positive.