Pregnancy is a time filled with immense joy and holds profound significance for couples eagerly anticipating the arrival of their child. However, it is crucial to recognise that certain conditions can arise during pregnancy, potentially leading to adverse outcomes. In order to assist pregnant women in monitoring their well-being and optimising prenatal care, I would like to shed light on some of these conditions.
- Foetal neural tube defect (NTD): One common condition that can arise during pregnancy is a foetal neural tube defect (NTD). NTD encompasses various structural anomalies in the foetus, such as an open spine or the absence of a skull. It is often associated with insufficient levels of folic acid in the mother, a family history of NTD, or certain maternal medications like Dilantin or phenobarbital. The good news is that we can easily prevent NTD by ensuring an adequate intake of folic acid. A daily dose of at least 0.4 mg is recommended, starting at least one month before conception. It is important to consult a doctor regarding any medications being taken prior to pregnancy to ensure their safety and discuss any necessary adjustments.
