U.S. Preventive Services Task Force
1996
Recommendation
The offering of screening for neural tube defects by maternal serum a-fetoprotein (MSAFP) measurement is recommended for all pregnant women who are seen for prenatal care in locations that have adequate counseling and follow-up services available. Screening with MSAFP may be offered as part of multiple-marker screening.
There is insufficient evidence to recommend for or against the offering of screening for neural tube defects by midtrimester ultrasound examination to all pregnant women, but recommendations against such screeening may be made on other grounds.
Daily multivitamins with folic acid to reduce the risk of neural tube defects are recommended for all women who are planning or capable of pregnancy.
Guide to Clinical Preventive Services, 2nd Edition
Screening for Neural Tube Defects, Including Folic Acid/Folate Prophylaxis, 1996 (PDF File, 110 KB)
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