Folic acid
Why is it important?
Folic acid helps babies' spines develop. It helps prevent what are called neural tube defects, such as spina bifida (see the section on routine tests and checks for more information on neural tube defects). If there is a chance you are, or might become pregnant, you should take a supplement and eat more foods containing folate (the natural form of folic acid).
When should I take it and how much do I need
to take?
Your baby’s spine starts to grow very early in pregnancy – often before you know you are expecting. This means it’s important to make sure you’re getting enough folic acid if you want to get pregnant.
It is recommended that you take a 400mcg (0.4mg) folic acid tablet every day before you get pregnant and for the first 12 weeks. You should also eat foods rich in folate, found in green leafy vegetables, citrus fruits and dried beans and peas.
Speak to your GP if you have had a previous pregnancy with a neural tube problem, are on medication for epilepsy or have diabetes. You may need a higher dose.
How do I get it?
You can buy folic acid supplements from chemists, supermarkets or health food shops or your doctor can prescribe them if you get free prescriptions.
You can also eat foods containing folate, such as:
- green vegetables, particularly dark, leafy ones such as kale, broccoli and Brussels sprouts – be careful not to overcook as you will destroy some of the vitamins
- fortified breakfast cereals – some have extra folic acid added so check the label
- oranges, grapefruit, bananas, parsnips, black-eyed peas and pulses are also good sources of folate
