Let’s take a closer look at why folic acid is so crucial for women before they become pregnant and how it can benefit both mother and child.
Folic acid before pregnancy is often considered a prerequisite by fetal medicine experts.
When trying to conceive, it’s important to understand the role of folic acid and how it is essential for pregnancy. Many experts recommend taking folic acid to get pregnant.
As soon as you start thinking about expanding your family, there are a few essential things you need to consider.
Ensure you get enough folic acid, as it benefits the baby’s health.
What is folic acid?
Folic acid, also known as folate, is a B vitamin that is essential for many important functions in the body.
It helps the body make new cells, including red blood cells, and it’s necessary for proper brain function.
Also, folic acid is vital for healthy fetal development, particularly during the early stages of pregnancy.
It plays a crucial role in the formation of the neural tube, which develops into the baby’s brain and spinal cord.
It is highly recommended that all women who are planning for pregnancy can take folic acid supplements or consume folate-rich foods.
4 Advantages of folic acid before pregnancy
Using folic acid to get pregnant provides a range of benefits for women. Some of the benefits include:
1. Reduces the risk of neural tube defects
One of the most important benefits of folic acid is its ability to reduce the risk of neural tube defects in infants.
These are serious birth defects that affect the brain and spinal cord, such as spina bifida and anencephaly.
By taking folic acid before becoming pregnant, women can significantly reduce the risk of these defects.
2. Supports healthy fertility and ovulation
Folic acid is also important for healthy fertility and ovulation. It helps the body make new cells and plays a critical role in DNA synthesis.
This is important because healthy DNA is essential for the development of healthy eggs, which are necessary for successful fertilization and pregnancy.
3. Reduces the risk of preeclampsia
Preeclampsia is a serious complication that can occur during pregnancy, characterized by high blood pressure and damage to organs such as the liver and kidneys.
Women who take folic acid before pregnancy have been shown to have a lower risk of developing preeclampsia.
4. Helps prevent miscarriages and stillbirths
Folic acid has also been linked to a reduced risk of miscarriage and stillbirth.
This may be because it supports healthy fetal development, which is essential for a successful pregnancy.
How much folic acid do women need before pregnancy?
For women of childbearing age, the recommended daily folic acid intake is 400-800 micrograms (mcg) per day.
Women who are planning to become pregnant or who are at high risk of having a child with a neural tube defect may be advised to take a higher dose of folic acid, up to 4,000 mcg per day, under the guidance of their healthcare provider.
It’s important for women to start taking folic acid at least one month before trying to conceive and to continue taking it throughout the first trimester of pregnancy.
How can women get enough folic acid?
If you are concerned about the intake of folic acid to get pregnant, here are some ways to consider:
- Eat foods that are rich in folic acid, such as leafy green vegetables, citrus fruits, fortified cereals, beans, and lentils.
- Consider fortified foods, such as bread, pasta, and rice, which are often enriched with folic acid.
- Talk to a healthcare provider about any concerns or questions regarding folic acid intake.
Conclusion
Taking folic acid before pregnancy is essential for the health and development of both the mother and the baby.
Women can ensure they get enough folic acid by taking a daily supplement, eating foods that are rich in folic acid, and talking to their healthcare provider about any concerns or questions regarding folic acid intake.
When it comes to ensuring a healthy pregnancy, it’s important to seek the right expert advice, at Jammi Scans.
By working with knowledgeable healthcare professionals and fetal medicine experts, women can ensure they have the support and resources they need for a successful and healthy pregnancy. Get in touch with the experts now.
Chennai Women’s Clinic is now Jammi Scans
Also, check the below blog to understand the importance of folic acid during pregnancy.
