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About Dr. Harriet Johnson
Expertise
I have been a Gynecologist for 3 years and can answer questions on early symptoms of pregnancy, pre-natal care, miscarriage, birth defects, nutrition, exercise, potential problems, concerns, labor and delivery, post-natal care etc. I can also answer any questions related to female issues.

Experience
OB/GYN Physician for 3 years.

Education/Credentials
Graduated from medical school with an MD degree and then went on to complete my residency at the University of Illinois at Chicago Medical Center. I am board-certified in Obstetrics and Gynecology.

You are here: Experts > Health/Fitness > Obstetrics/Gynecology > ObGyn/Pregnancy issues > Prenatal and vitamin b12

ObGyn/Pregnancy issues - Prenatal and vitamin b12

Expert: Dr. Harriet Johnson - 11/4/2009

Question
Me and my partner have been talking about having a baby. In march I had blood work done. My b12 level was 200. they said the normal was 1200-1500. I had to take shots for six months. If I was to get pregnant with my levels that low, could there be something wrong with the baby? What are the chances that something could be wrong?

Answer
Hi Beth,

Low levels of vitamin b12 puts you at 5 times the risk of having a child with a neural tube defect. Neural tube defects are a class of birth defects affecting the brain and spinal cord. One type, spina bifida, can cause partial paralysis. Another type, anencephaly, is a fatal defect in which the brain and skull are severely underdeveloped.

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