Spina Bifida: Understanding Diagnosis & Severity

Spina bifida is a birth defect that occurs when the spine does not close completely during pregnancy. It is not possible to have spina bifida and not be born with it. However, it is possible for a person to have spina bifida and not be diagnosed with it until later in life. This is because some cases of spina bifida are very mild and do not cause any noticeable symptoms.