In this article:
Why Folic Acid Is Important for Pregnancy
Folic acid is a form of Vitamin B9, helping the body to make new cells. This vitamin is important for becoming pregnant. It helps in developing your baby's brain and spinal cord from the beginning.Your baby could be more susceptible to neural tube defects, such as spina bifida (where the spinal cord doesn't develop properly), if you didn't ingest enough folic acid. Research shows that taking folic acid regularly before conception and in the first half of pregnancy could reduce your risk of a neural tube defect by as much as 70%.
Furthermore, folic acid can also:
- Increase production of red blood cells, which can lower your risk of anaemia
- Aids the placenta to grow properly to support your baby's growth
- Improve your energy levels by helping cells grow and repair
When Should You Start Taking Folic Acid?
Folic acid is most beneficial when taken before pregnancy, as a baby's brain and spinal cord are in a developing stage in the first 3 to 4 weeks after conception. Sometimes, even before you realise you are pregnant.Recommendation from health experts:
- Start taking folic acid three months before trying to conceive
- Continue as soon as possible if you are already pregnant
How Much Folic Acid Should You Take?
The exact dosage is dependent on your health, but there is a general guideline:- Typically, 400 mcg each day is advised
- After conceiving: Take at least 400-600 mcg per day
- If you have had a baby with a neural tube defect in the past or have certain medical conditions (such as diabetes or epilepsy), your doctor may advise a higher dose (4 mg per day)
What's the Best Time to Take Folic Acid?
Folic acid is an easy supplement to use because you can take it at any time. However, because it is common practice to take it at the same time every day, you will find it easier to remember. Many women like to take it in the morning with their breakfast.Here are some tips to consider:
- Folic acid should be taken with water. You should not drink coffee and tea because caffeine can interfere with the absorption of other substances.
- Caffeine is known to interfere with absorption.
- If your supplement includes iron, do not take it with milk - calcium reduces iron absorption.
- If you forgot to take a dose, do it right away. Avoid taking a double dose.
Should You Get Folic Acid From Food or Supplements?
Folate (the natural form of folic acid) can be found in foods such as:- Dark green leafy vegetables (spinach, kale)
- Citrus fruits (oranges, lemons)
- Beans and lentils
- Whole grains
- Nuts and seeds
Folic acid is difficult to obtain from the suggested diet alone. Supplementation is also necessary. Many physicians recommend taking a prenatal vitamin that combines folic acid and nutrients like iron, Vitamin D, and calcium.
What If You Take Too Much Folic Acid?
Fine qualities of folic acid are that it is safe and water-soluble, allowing for excess removal from the body in urine, so large doses without doctors' recommendations may mask B-12 deficiencies.The stated dosage must be followed, and you must consult with your doctor before altering it.
Who Needs Extra Folic Acid?
You may need a higher dose of folic acid if you:- A family history of neural tube defects
- Have diabetes, obesity, or epilepsy
- Take certain medications (like anti-seizure medicines)
- Are carrying twins or triplets
How Long Should You Continue Taking Folic Acid?
Most experts advise you to continue taking folic acid throughout your pregnancy. The first trimester is crucial for the baby's brain and spine, but folic acid can also support the placenta and help prevent anaemia in the later parts of pregnancy.Many doctors will also suggest that you continue taking folic acid for several months after delivery, especially if you are breastfeeding, since your body will still need extra nutrients.
Despite how small, folic acid has an enormous effect on both fertility and the well-being of an unborn child. Starting early, taking a therapeutic dose, and continuing through your pregnancy will provide your baby with the best possible start in life.
Whether you’re pregnant, a new mom, or navigating postpartum, you don’t have to do it alone. Join our support group to connect, share, and support one another.
FAQs on The Right Way to Take Folic Acid for Pregnancy
- Can I stop taking folic acid once I get pregnant?
No. You should keep taking folic acid throughout pregnancy because it is good for your blood health and the growth of your baby, not so that you don't have a baby with a congenital disability. - Can folic acid improve fertility?
Yes. Folic acid is primarily known to prevent congenital disabilities; however, evidence suggests that it may also improve egg quality and ovulation in women and may support male sperm health. - What if I forgot to take folic acid before pregnancy?
Don't worry, start taking it as soon as you know you are pregnant. Even if you missed the pre-pregnancy period, it has many important benefits when taken during pregnancy.
