A neural tube defect happens when something interferes with the way the baby grows before he or she is born. The two most common conditions in which neural tube defects occur are spina bifida and anencephaly. These conditions may be prevented if women take enough folic acid before and while they are pregnant. Spina bifida happens when the spine does not develop normally. Anencephaly happens when the skull and the brain do not develop normally.
Folic acid is a vitamin.
Folic acid, also called folate or folacin, is found in some vitamin pills. All women should take vitamins that contain folic acid before they get pregnant. You can get some folic acid from eating some foods. But it is hard to get enough folic acid from your diet. It is better to take vitamins that contain folic acid.