4. Diabetes
Gestational diabetes and pregestational insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus are serious conditions that can negatively affect a fetus during pregnancy. Women who are unable to manage their diabetes or those who are taking certain medications are at a higher risk of carrying a child who develops spina bifida. Maternal type 1 diabetes has also been linked to spina bifida, though it is not always a confirmation of the defect developing.
Alpha-fetoprotein is an important nutrient that helps with fetus development, IDDM inhibits the production during gestation which can trigger neural tube defects such as spina bifida and other neural tube defects.
Insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus that is well-controlled results in a lower risk of birth defects though gestational diabetes is not known to increase the risks of developing spina bifida any more than a normal pregnancy. Women who are at risk should speak with a medical professional in regards to changing existing medications or reducing their sugar level prior to becoming pregnant.