Folic acid during pregnancy

Folic acid is an essential nutrient for pregnant women. It helps prevent birth defects in the baby's brain and spine. Here are some answers to questions you may have about folic acid and pregnancy.

Can I take folic acid after 12 weeks pregnant?

Yes, it is still beneficial to take folic acid even after 12 weeks pregnant. The neural tube forms within the first 28 days of pregnancy, which is before most women know they are pregnant. It is recommended to start taking folic acid before you get pregnant and continue to take it throughout the first trimester. However, it can still be beneficial to take it later on in pregnancy.

What happens if you don't take folic acid during pregnancy?

If a woman does not take enough folic acid during pregnancy, her baby may be at a higher risk for neural tube defects such as spina bifida. Studies have shown that taking folic acid before and during pregnancy can reduce the risk of neural tube defects by up to 70%.

Why do doctors recommend taking folic acid during pregnancy?

Doctors recommend taking folic acid during pregnancy because it helps prevent birth defects in the baby's brain and spine. A study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that women who took folic acid supplements during the first trimester of pregnancy had a significantly lower risk of having a baby with a neural tube defect.

Is it too late to take folic acid at 8 weeks?

No, it is not too late to start taking folic acid at 8 weeks pregnant. The neural tube forms within the first 28 days of pregnancy, which is before most women know they are pregnant. However, it is recommended to start taking folic acid before you get pregnant and continue to take it throughout the first trimester.

When should a pregnant woman not take folic acid?

Pregnant women should not take folic acid if they have a condition called pernicious anemia, which makes it difficult for the body to absorb vitamin B12. They should also avoid folic acid if they have a history of seizures or are taking certain medications such as phenytoin and carbamazepine. 

Do I still need folic acid after 12 weeks?

Yes, it is still beneficial to take folic acid even after 12 weeks pregnant. The neural tube forms within the first 28 days of pregnancy, which is before most women know they are pregnant. It is recommended to start taking folic acid before you get pregnant and continue to take it throughout the first trimester. However, it can still be beneficial to take it later on in pregnancy.

What are the symptoms of low folic acid?

Symptoms of low folic acid include fatigue, weakness, headaches, irritability, and anemia. If a woman is pregnant and has low levels of folic acid, her baby may be at a higher risk for neural tube defects.

What are 3 benefits of folic acid?

1. Folic acid helps prevent birth defects in the baby's brain and spine.
2. It can reduce the risk of miscarriage and preterm delivery.
3. It may also help prevent certain types of cancer such as colorectal cancer.

What week of pregnancy is folic acid most important?

The first trimester, specifically the first 28 days of pregnancy, is when the neural tube forms and folic acid is most important. However, it can still be beneficial to take it later in pregnancy.

Is 7 weeks pregnant too late for folic acid?

No, it is not too late to start taking folic acid at 7 weeks pregnant. The neural tube forms within the first 28 days of pregnancy, which is before most women