The Role of Folic Acid in Pregnancy: A Guide for Expecting Moms

Pregnancy is a transformative journey, and maintaining optimal health is essential for both mother and baby. One crucial nutrient for supporting maternal health and fetal development is folic acid. It helps prevent birth defects and supports your baby’s healthy growth.

This blog highlights the benefits of folic acid, its role in pregnancy, and how to ensure you're getting enough for a healthy pregnancy.

The importance of folic acid in pregnancy

Folic acid plays an important role in pregnancy, especially in the early weeks, even before you may realise you're expecting. It is essential for supporting the healthy development of your baby and reducing the risk of serious birth defects. Here’s why folic acid is so important:

Neural tube development: Folic acid helps in the right formation and closure of the neural tube, which forms the brain and spinal cord. This greatly lowers the risk of neural tube defects like spina bifida and anencephaly.

Prevention of anaemia: Folic acid aids in the production of red blood cells, helping prevent anaemia, a common issue faced by many pregnant women.

DNA synthesis and cell growth: Folic acid supports DNA synthesis and repair, ensuring proper cell division and healthy growth as your baby’s organs and tissues form.

When should you start taking folic acid?

Health experts emphasise the importance of folic acid before beginning and during the early stages of pregnancy. It is crucial for the development of your baby and helps prevent serious birth defects.

Here's what you need to know about taking folic acid:

Start early: Ideally, start taking folic acid supplements at least one month before trying to get pregnant. If you’re already pregnant, start taking it as soon as you confirm your pregnancy.

Prevention of pregnancy complications: Even if you’re not planning to conceive, taking folic acid can help prevent pregnancy-related complications in case of an unexpected pregnancy.

Recommended dosage: A daily intake of 400-800 micrograms of folic acid is generally recommended during pregnancy.

Higher doses if necessary: Women with some medical disorders or a family history of neural tube defects may need a higher dose of folic acid, as prescribed by a doctor.

Signs of pregnancy and the role of folic acid

Early signs of pregnancy include a missed period, nausea, fatigue, frequent urination, and breast tenderness. These changes occur as your body adjusts to hormonal shifts, making folic acid intake vital during this time.

Hormonal changes: Chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) rises after the fertilised egg implants in the uterus, helping maintain pregnancy.

Folic acid's role: By the time hCG confirms pregnancy, folic acid is already supporting fetal development, particularly in neural tube formation.

How can you check if a medication is safe during pregnancy?

Not all medications are safe during pregnancy, and some can affect fetal development. Always consult a healthcare provider before taking any medicines during pregnancy.

Folic acid supplements: Folic acid is commonly prescribed during pregnancy to prevent deficiencies, but always confirm with your doctor before using any supplements or medicines.

Increased need for folic acid: Women with conditions like epilepsy or Crohn’s disease may require additional folic acid due to a higher risk of deficiency.

Medication interactions: Some medications, such as anticonvulsants, can interfere with the body’s ability to absorb folate, making supplementation essential.

Medication interactions – Certain medications, like anticonvulsants, can reduce the body’s ability to absorb folate, so additional supplementation may be necessary.

Monitor for side effects – Always be alert for any changes or side effects when taking medications, and report them to your healthcare provider immediately.

How to get enough folic acid?

While folic acid is naturally found in foods like leafy vegetables, nuts, beans, and citrus fruits, the average diet often doesn’t provide enough, especially for pregnant women. This is why supplements like Folvite tablets are often prescribed to ensure you're getting the right amount.

Here are a few ways you can boost your folic acid intake during pregnancy:

1. Consume fortified foods – Many breakfast cereals, breads, and pasta are fortified with folic acid.

2. Eat folate-rich foods – Include more spinach, asparagus, avocados, and lentils in your meals.

3. Take supplements – If you're struggling to meet the recommended intake through food, folic acid supplements can ensure you're covering your nutritional bases.

4. Consult with your doctor – Ensure you’re getting the right amount for your specific health needs.

5. Plan ahead – Start folic acid intake before conception to ensure optimal levels during pregnancy.

Wrapping up

Folic acid is essential during pregnancy, supporting your baby's healthy development and preventing birth defects. Starting supplementation early and following your healthcare provider's guidance is key to your health and your child's well-being. Be aware of the nutrients and medicines that support a healthy pregnancy.

Always consult with your doctor before adding any new medication or supplement. Early folic acid intake sets the foundation for a thriving pregnancy.