Folate or folic acid is the form of vitamin B9. It is needed for normal growth and development throughout life. It is used to treat a deficiency of vitamin B9 and to prevent complications during the course of pregnancy. It could be taken either in the morning or evening with a glass of water, depending on the suitability according to your body. Deficiency of folic acid may lead to certain neurological and cardiovascular conditions. Also, it can increase the risk of placental abruption, where the placenta separates from the uterus.
Advantages of folic acid before conception
You should start taking folate supplements before trying to conceive and continue up to at least 12 weeks of pregnancy. It can help in various ways:
- It can help to prevent neural tube defects like spina bifida during pregnancy.
- It helps in safe conception, and risks during pregnancy are reduced to an extent if started at least one month before trying to have a baby.
- It also prevents the risk of miscarriage caused by NTD.
- It reduces the infertility issue related to NTD.
Benefits of folic acid during pregnancy
By the time you know that you are pregnant, the brain and spinal cord of the baby have started to develop. Therefore, it is necessary to start taking folate supplements to avoid birth defects like anencephaly, in which the brain of the baby does not develop properly. These defects do not allow the baby to survive. Also, babies born with defects in the spine, like spina bifida, have to undergo multiple surgeries, or they may have to face paralysis or even long-term disability.
- Folic acid helps in preventing serious birth defects during the course of pregnancy as the baby’s brain and spine begin to form and develop in the first month of pregnancy.
- It reduces the risk of anemia.
- It is crucial for forming red blood cells and synthesizing DNA.
- Also, it is beneficial for fetal development.
- It reduces the risk of cleft lip and palate.
- Adequate intake aids in fetal growth.
Natural food sources and supplements
Many foods contain natural folic acid. Vital sources of folic acid are several, such as:
- Leafy vegetables
- Okra
- Mushrooms
- Beans
- Asparagus
- Broccoli
- Sunflower Seeds
- Spinach
- Orange juice, etc.
Though sources are numerous, it is often advised to take supplements as well to avoid the reduction in blood levels of folate and high blood levels of homocysteine. Supplements may reduce the risk of congenital heart defects. A higher dose of 5mg supplement of folic acid is required usually if:
- You are taking anti epilepsy medicine.
- You have diabetes.
- You or your partner has an NTD.
- Your previous pregnancy was affected by NTD.
- The partner has a family history of NTD.
- You are taking anti-retroviral medication for HIV.
Conclusion
India’s leading fertility clinic, Sofat Infertility Center, helps you get through your sensitive pregnancy journey with ease. Our fertility experts will assist you with the folic acid required during your pregnancy. Women undergoing IVF treatment need close monitoring as well as a higher dose of folic acid as compared to those with natural conception. Supplements should be taken under the guidance of professionals to ensure adequate intake. Our team’s protocol and expertise are helping millions of women hear the cackle of their babies through a healthy pregnancy.
