Neural tube defects are serious birth defects affecting the brain, spine, or spinal cord, including spina bifida and anencephaly. These conditions develop when the neural tube fails to close properly during the first month of pregnancy due to inadequate folate levels in the mother. The Folate, RBC test is the most important test for prevention, measuring long-term folate stores critical for proper neural tube development.
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Neural tube defects are caused by inadequate folate (vitamin B9) levels in the mother during the critical first 28 days of pregnancy when the neural tube develops and closes. Folate is essential for DNA synthesis and cell division during rapid fetal development. Without sufficient folate, the neural tube may fail to close completely, resulting in conditions like spina bifida, where the spinal column does not fully close, or anencephaly, where major portions of the brain and skull do not develop. Other contributing factors include certain medications, diabetes, obesity, and genetic predispositions, but folate deficiency remains the primary preventable cause.
The Folate, RBC (red blood cell folate) test is the most important test for neural tube defect prevention because it measures long-term folate stores in your body rather than just recent dietary intake. This test provides a more accurate picture of your folate status over the past 2-3 months, which is critical since neural tube development occurs very early in pregnancy, often before you know you are pregnant. Women planning pregnancy should have their RBC folate levels checked to ensure adequate stores before conception. If levels are low, your healthcare provider can recommend appropriate folic acid supplementation to reduce neural tube defect risk by up to 70 percent. This simple blood test can make the difference between a healthy pregnancy and a devastating birth defect.
You should get tested for folate levels if you are planning to become pregnant, are of childbearing age and sexually active, have a history of neural tube defects in previous pregnancies, or have a family history of these conditions. Testing is especially important at least 3 months before trying to conceive, as it takes time to build adequate folate stores in your body. You should also consider testing if you take medications that interfere with folate absorption, have been diagnosed with malabsorption conditions, follow a restricted diet, or have not been taking prenatal vitamins regularly. Early testing and supplementation can prevent up to 70 percent of neural tube defects.
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What this means
Your testosterone levels are slightly below the optimal range. While this is not necessarily cause for concern, it may contribute to occasional fatigue, reduced motivation, or lower muscle mass over time.
Recommended actions
Increase resistance or strength training
Prioritize 7–8 hours of quality sleep per night, try to reduce stress
Include more zinc- and magnesium-rich foods (like shellfish, beef, pumpkin seeds, spinach)
Consider retesting in 3–6 months
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