5. Folic acid deficiency
Folic acid is an important part of female reproductive health. This nutrient helps to keep the follicles in the uterus healthy as well as promote a healthy pregnancy. Women who have an inadequate intake of folic acid before becoming pregnant and during their pregnancy are at a higher risk of their fetus developing anencephaly. A lack of proper levels of folic acid is also responsible for other neural tube defects like spina bifida.
Women who are exposed to environmental or other agents that disrupt folate metabolism during the development of the neural tube through the first two months of pregnancy are at a higher risk of anencephaly developing. Though folic acid is very important, too much folic acid can also be harmful.
An anticonvulsant of folic acid, valproic acid actually increased the chances of certain birth defects such as anencephaly and spina bifida. Careful monitoring and proper dosages should be provided by a healthcare professional to avoid risks.