International Folic Acid Awareness Week is more than an annual event; it’s a global movement aimed at teaching and raising awareness about the importance of this vitamin in reproductive health. Folic acid, the synthetic form of folate, is an essential B vitamin for preventing birth defects and supporting optimal fetal development. It’s key for women planning a pregnancy or already expecting.
What is folic acid and why is it crucial before pregnancy?
Folic acid, known as vitamin B9, is fundamental for vital functions like DNA replication, cell division, and red blood cell formation. Its role is decisive in the first weeks of gestation, even before you know you’re pregnant, because it helps form the neural tube, the precursor to the baby’s brain and spinal cord.
Folic acid deficiency in these early stages can cause neural tube defects such as spina bifida or anencephaly. Do not self-medicate: before starting supplementation, consult a specialist in assisted reproduction, especially if you aim to increase your chances of conceiving.
How much folic acid is recommended for fertility?
Health experts indicate that women of childbearing age should consume at least 400 µg (micrograms) of folic acid per day. During pregnancy, the dose increases to 600 µg/day. Although folate is present in leafy greens, citrus fruits, and legumes, reaching these amounts through diet alone can be challenging. That’s why folic acid supplements are a practical and effective strategy.
Additionally, including folate-rich foods enhances its benefits. Learn more in our article Nutrition Day: How Diet Impacts Your Fertility and Reproductive Health.
How does folic acid affect male fertility?
Folic acid also benefits men. Studies show that adequate intake improves sperm quality by supporting cell division and reducing chromosomal abnormalities. This way, it increases the probability of conception.
Best practices for supplementing with folic acid
- Start at least 3 months before trying to conceive.
- Maintain a consistent intake throughout the entire pregnancy.
- Combine supplementation with a balanced, folate-rich diet.
- Always consult a specialist before self-medicating.
Why is nutrition vital in fertility treatments?
Diet directly influences reproductive health. Learn how nutrients and lifestyle can enhance your fertility treatment outcomes in our article The Importance of Nutrition in Fertility Treatment. At Ingenes, we offer a personalized, evidence-based guide to support you on the path to a healthy pregnancy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Take More Than 600 µg of Folic Acid Safely?
Exceeding 600 µg/day provides no additional benefits and can mask symptoms of vitamin B12 deficiency. Consult your doctor to establish the optimal dose based on your health status and medical history.
Each woman has individual needs, especially if she has anemia or a history of neural tube defects.
What Is the Difference Between Folate and Folic Acid?
Folate is the natural form found in spinach, broccoli, and legumes, while folic acid is the synthetic version in supplements and fortified foods. Both perform similar functions, but folic acid has higher bioavailability when taken on an empty stomach.
A folate-rich diet provides additional nutrients, so combining both sources is the most effective strategy to meet daily recommendations.
When Should I Stop Taking Folic Acid?
It’s recommended to continue supplementation until the end of the first trimester, when the neural tube is fully formed. After that, your doctor will assess whether to maintain a lower dose or switch to a multivitamin.
Do not stop folic acid on your own: your specialist will determine the ideal supplementation plan based on your pregnancy’s progress.
Does Folic Acid Prevent All Birth Defects?
Folic acid significantly reduces the risk of neural tube defects but does not prevent all congenital anomalies. Other genetic, environmental, and nutritional factors also play a role.
Along with supplementation, maintain a healthy lifestyle, avoid toxins, and attend prenatal checkups to detect and manage potential risks early.
Sources
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2023). About Folic Acid. Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/folicacid/about.html
- World Health Organization. (2018). WHO recommendations on antenatal care for a positive pregnancy experience. Geneva: WHO. doi:10.1016/S0140-6736(19)30212-1
- U.S. National Library of Medicine. (2022). Folic Acid. MedlinePlus. Retrieved from https://medlineplus.gov/folicacid.html
- Blum, J. W., & Garza, C. (2016). Folate supplementation and prevention of neural tube defects. The Lancet, 388(10057), 1427–1429. doi:10.1016/S0140-6736(16)21555-4
We know the journey to motherhood and fatherhood can be exciting and challenging. You are not alone! If you have questions or need a personalized plan, consult a fertilization specialist to receive the right guidance and give your future baby the best start.