Folic Acid Before Pregnancy

Folic Acid Before Pregnancy

Folic acid is one of the most important vitamins a woman needs before pregnancy, especially during the first trimester.
It plays a vital role in supporting healthy fetal development and reducing the risk of birth defects.

What is folic acid?
It is a type of vitamin B.

What roles does folic acid play in the body?
- It helps the body form new cells.
 - It supports normal blood production.
 - It plays a vital role in the development of the fetal nervous system.

Why do we recommend taking folic acid before pregnancy?
- It plays a crucial role in the formation of the neural tube in the fetus, which later develops into the brain and spinal cord.
 - Folic acid deficiency during this period can lead to neural tube defects in the fetus, such as spina bifida or craniofacial anomalies.

When should I start taking folic acid before pregnancy?
At least one month, and preferably three months, before conception.

How does taking folic acid affect the mother's health?
It protects her from anemia.

Does folic acid play a role in reducing the risk of preeclampsia?
Yes, it contributes to healthy placental development, which reduces the risk of high blood pressure during pregnancy and preeclampsia, as preeclampsia occurs due to placental dysfunction.

What is the recommended dose of folic acid?
400 micrograms daily before pregnancy and during the first trimester.

In which cases do higher doses of folic acid are needed?
- A previous pregnancy with a fetus that had birth defects, especially those affecting the nervous system. 
- Diabetes.
 - Taking certain medications for epilepsy.

What are the natural sources of folic acid?
- Green leafy vegetables
- Oranges and citrus fruits
- Lentils and beans
- Avocados
- Nuts
- Fortified cereals

When should you stop taking it during pregnancy?
Usually, after the first trimester, but there are some cases where it's necessary to continue taking it throughout the pregnancy.

Are there different folic acid formulations available in pharmacies?
Yes, there is the baseline formulation, which requires enzymatic conversion to the active ingredient in a woman's body, and there is the active formulation.
Women with an MTHFR mutation require the active formulation directly because their bodies are unable to enzymatically convert the baseline compound to the active ingredient.

Dr Najeeb Layyous  F.R.C.O.G

Consultant Obstetrician, Gynecologist and Infertility Specialist