The Importance of Folic Acid During Pregnancy
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When you first see a positive pregnancy test, a thousand questions can flood your mind. What now? What do I need to do next? What’s safe for me and the pregnancy? One of the most common pieces of advice you might hear is to start taking folic acid, but you might not know why it matters or when to begin.
If you’re in the early stages of pregnancy or just found out you’re pregnant, understanding folic acid can be a simple but powerful place to start.
Why Folic Acid Matters in Early Pregnancy
Folic acid plays a big role during the first few weeks of pregnancy, often before you even know you're pregnant. It helps form the neural tube, which becomes the brain and spine. Without enough folic acid during this early stage, there’s a higher risk of neural tube defects like spina bifida.
Since the neural tube develops so early, it’s important to start getting folic acid as soon as possible. For many women, that means even before a confirmed pregnancy. Starting early gives the body time to build up enough folate to help the pregnancy get off to a strong beginning.
Benefits of Folic Acid for Your Health and Pregnancy
Folic acid plays an ongoing role throughout pregnancy. It helps your body make new cells, which matters when so much is changing at once. This includes the development of the placenta, the increase in blood volume, and the growth of tissues that help carry the pregnancy forward.
Getting enough folic acid can also lower the risk of complications like low birth weight or preterm delivery. Some studies have linked it to a lower chance of heart defects or cleft lip and palate.
For women who are pregnant, it may also help reduce fatigue and contribute to feeling more balanced during a physically demanding time.
How Much Folic Acid You Need and When to Start
Most women are advised to take 400 to 800 micrograms of folic acid each day, even if they’re not planning to get pregnant. This is because early development happens fast, and those first few weeks are often missed before pregnancy is confirmed.
Some women may need more than the standard amount, especially if there’s a history of neural tube defects or other medical factors. A healthcare provider can help decide the right dose based on individual needs.
Folic acid is available in many multivitamins and prenatal supplements. It's also added to certain foods like breakfast cereals, breads, and pasta. Eating foods rich in natural folate, like spinach, oranges, and lentils, adds another layer of support.
Common Myths About Folic Acid Explained
It’s easy to run into mixed messages about folic acid, especially during the early stages of pregnancy. Clearing up a few common myths can make it easier to know what your body really needs:
Myth: You only need folic acid if you're already pregnant.
Fact:
The first few weeks matter most, which is why folic acid is recommended for anyone who could become pregnant.
Myth: You can get enough folic acid from food alone.
Fact: Foods like spinach, beans, and citrus are helpful, but most people need a supplement to meet the full daily amount.
Myth: Once you're out of the first trimester, folic acid doesn’t matter anymore.
Fact:
It continues to help with cell growth and development throughout the pregnancy.
Schedule a No-Cost Pregnancy Consultation Today
If you're feeling unsure about what steps to take after a positive pregnancy test, you're not alone. It’s common to have questions about what’s safe, what to avoid, and how to take care of your health in the early weeks.
You don’t have to figure everything out by yourself.
Willow Womens Center offers no-cost pregnancy consultations that give you space to ask questions, learn about your options, and take a breath. If your
pregnancy test is positive at our center, an ultrasound may be available during your visit to learn more about how far along you are and if the pregnancy is developing.
We provide clear information in a private,
caring environment so you can move forward feeling more confident.
Make your appointment today. We’re here to help when you’re ready.
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