Un ultrasound follow-up of pregnancy can help detect the presence of spina bifida early on. If this malformation is detected, antenatal surgery or even therapeutic termination of pregnancy in certain cases will be proposed.

The consumption offolic acid greatly reduces the risk of spina bifida. A dose of 0,4 mg of folic acid per day is recommended during the month before pregnancy and during the first trimester. Folic acid is mainly present in the wholemeal bread, fruits, green vegetables and meat.