Birth Defects that can be reduced by the mother's use of Folic Acid include:
 

Spina bifida

• Spina Bifida occures when the backbone that protects the spinal cord does not form and close as it should. This results in varying degrees of damage to the spinal cord and nerves. 

Anacephaly

• A problem with the formation of the brain and the surrounding skull. Almost all of these children die shortly after birth.

Congenital heart disease

• A malformation of the heart.

Cleft lip and palate

• Abnormal closure of the lip and palate.

Limb reduction defects

• Problems with the development of the arms and legs.

Obstructive uropathies

• Abnormal formation of the kidneys or bladder.