What Is Spina Bifida? Spina bifida is a type of neural tube defect (NTD). The term spina bifida literally means “split spine.” Very early in pregnancy, a structure called the neural tube forms and eventually develops into the baby’s brain and spinal cord. Normally, this tube closes completely. With spina bifida, part of the neural tube does not develop or close as expected, leaving an opening somewhere along the spine. This happens incredibly early—usually within the first 28

When I was pregnant with Beckham, I heard the words "neurogenic bladder" countless times as we met with different specialists. As a neonatal nurse practitioner, I understood the medical definition and what typically took place during a NICU stay (which I’ll help explain below). What I didn’t fully understand was everything that happens after the NICU—and just how important your child’s pediatric urologist becomes. Long after you leave the hospital, your baby’s urologist will