What is the Importance of Folic Acid in Pregnancy?

Getting enough folic acid during pregnancy is one of the most important things you can do for your baby's health. It's so critical to your baby's healthy cognitive development that experts recommend making sure you're getting the optimal amount of prenatal folic acid as soon as you think about getting pregnant.

What is Folic Acid?

Folate is a type of B vitamin that nourishes your baby's developing nervous system and helps reduce the chances of certain birth defects such as spinal cord and brain abnormalities. The synthetic form in supplements and fortified foods is called folic acid. A major study showed that women who took 400 micrograms of folic acid before conception and early in pregnancy were able to reduce the risk of their baby being born with a serious brain or spinal birth defect by up to 70 percent. Taking folic acid during pregnancy is also associated with a reduced risk of preterm birth. Vitamin is also very important in the development of DNA. Folic acid is essential for tissue formation, cell development and growth.

Why Should You Take Folic Acid During Pregnancy?

Folic acid intake during pregnancy can reduce the risk of your baby being born with a serious brain or spinal birth defect by up to 70%. Because some pregnancies are unplanned and it's so important for your baby to get folic acid during the first few weeks of pregnancy, experts recommend that all women of childbearing age take a multivitamin with adequate levels of folic acid.

• When trying to conceive: 400 mcg
• Throughout pregnancy: 600 mcg
• While breastfeeding: You should take 500 mcg of folic acid.

Which Foods Are Good Sources of Folate?

Eating healthy during pregnancy is important for the health of the baby and mother.

Good food sources for folate or folic acid:

• Spinach
• Asparagus
• Lentil
• Peas
• Broccoli
• Grapefruit
• Cereals
• Orange juice
• Banana

Does Folic Acid Help Get Pregnant?

Research suggests that folic acid may support fertility. Women who take folic acid are more likely to ovulate. Previous research has found that women trying to conceive are more likely to become pregnant when they take this vitamin supplement. However, the effect of folic acid on fertility remains to be investigated.

What Are the Symptoms of Folic Acid Deficiency?

Problems associated with folate deficiency can include:

• Exhaustion.
• Headache.
• Pale skin.
• Pain in the mouth and tongue.

Are There Any Harms of Taking Folic Acid During Pregnancy?

When taken in the appropriate dose, folic acid should not cause any problems. Taking more than 1 mg of prenatal folic acid per day can cause abdominal cramps, diarrhea, rash, sleep disturbances, irritability, confusion, nausea, upset stomach, behavioral changes, skin reactions, seizures, gas, and other difficulties.