Folic acid is essential for a woman during pregnancy because it can reduce the risk of birth defects such as spina bifida. Known as neural tube defects (NTDs), these occur early in pregnancy in the spinal cord or in the brain, and are among the most common birth defects.
It is estimated that up to 70% of the 900 affected pregnancies in the UK every year could be prevented if the mum-to-be took folic acid before she conceives and during the early stages of her pregnancy.
The neural tube is the structure that develops into the brain and spinal cord. A neural tube defect occurs when this structure fails to close completely by the 28th day after conception. Defects in the spinal cord and vertebrae, brain and skull can develop and some can be fatal.
Prenatal supplements such as folic acid will help to boost the growth and development of your unborn child by providing it with the nutrients that are essential for good foetal health.
Start taking folic acid tablets at least three months before you want to conceive and if you are already pregnant, start taking folic acid immediately and take daily until you are 12 weeks’ pregnant. As NTDs will form in the first 28 days of pregnancy it’s essential you get extra folic acid into your system as quickly as possible.
Folic acid is found in foods such as peas, fresh and dried fruit, eggs and fortified breakfast cereals but only in small amounts so you will need to take 400mcg every day in supplement form.
The supplements also include vital minerals such as iron, calcium and vitamins A and C, all essential for baby’s development.
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