All reproductive age women should be on a vitamin containing Folic Acid (B9).
Even those women who are not planning conception should consider taking a
vitamin containing folic acid in case there is an unplanned pregnancy.
It is important to be on the vitamins before you attempt to conceive as your
baby will be forming its nervous system BEFORE you even know you are pregnant.
Many birth defects associated with folic acid occur in the FIRST FEW DAYS OF
PREGNANCY. Taking folic acid (B9) can lower the chance of brain and spinal cord
birth defects. Closure of the neural tube is complete by the 28th day of
pregnancy (6 weeks after the last menstrual period). Failure of this tube to
close can lead to serious birth defects of the skull, brain, spinal cord and
vertebra.
B vitamins including folic acid/folate are important for the development of
new cells in the body. Most women do not get enough of these vitamins in their
food which makes supplementation important. It is also important to note that we
do not store these vitamins in our bodies, again making supplementation
necessary.
Most vitamins contain at least 400 mcg of Folic Acid so it is OK to take a
multi-vitamin if you prefer since this is the minimum dose recommended in women
wishing to conceive. Prescription prenatal vitamins contain a minimum of 1000
mcg of folic acid in them. There are certain conditions that require you to take
a higher dose of folic acid. Folic acid is considered to be non-toxic;
therefore, taking higher doses should not be of concern .Speak with your ObGYN
prior to attempting conception to be sure you are taking enough. The most
important thing when choosing a PNV is to choose one that you can tolerate and
that you will take on a daily basis. You may have to try several to find one
that is right for you.
You can get folic acid from food as well! Try eating lost of green leafy vegetables, nuts, beans, and citrus fruits.
You can get folic acid from food as well! Try eating lost of green leafy vegetables, nuts, beans, and citrus fruits.
