Types of Spina Bifida 

Spina Bifida Occulta(sounds like: o-cult-tuh)-  Spina bifida occulta is the mildest type of spina bifida. It is sometimes called “hidden” spina bifida. With it, there is a small gap in the spine, but no opening or sac on the back. The spinal cord and the nerves usually are normal. Many times, spina bifida occulta is not discovered until late childhood or adulthood. This type of spina bifida usually does not cause any disabilities.

Meningocele (sounds like: ma-nin-jo-seal)- A sac of fluid can be seen on the baby's back.  It leaves the baby with little nerve damage. Can cause minor disabilities.

Myelomeningocele (sounds like: my-low-ma-nin-jo-seal)- Myelomeningocele is the most serious type of spina bifida.  A sac of fluid comes through an opening in the baby’s back. Part of the spinal cord and nerves are in this sac and are damaged. This type of spina bifida causes moderate to severe disabilities, such as problems affecting how the person goes to the bathroom, loss of feeling in the person’s legs or feet, and not being able to move the legs.