Top 5 Benefits of Taking Pregnancy Folic Acid

Thinking about pregnancy or already expecting? Then folic acid is one thing you don’t want to miss. Taking pregnancy folic acid early can help your baby’s brain and spinal cord develop properly—and reduce the risk of serious birth defects.

According to the CDC, taking folic acid before and during early pregnancy can reduce the risk of neural tube defects by up to 70%. Whether you're planning to get pregnant or already in your first few weeks, understanding how folic acid supplements work is one of the smartest steps you can take.

What Is Pregnancy Folic Acid?

Pregnancy folic acid is the synthetic form of folate, a B vitamin that helps your body create new cells. It’s especially important for pregnant women during the first few weeks of pregnancy—even before conception.

You’ll find it in fortified foods like breakfast cereals and in leafy green vegetables, but many don’t get enough folic acid through food alone. That’s why folic acid supplements are recommended.

If you’ve had previous pregnancies affected by spina bifida, your doctor may suggest a higher dose—up to 4,000 mcg—to lower the risk of neural tube defects.

What Are the Top 5 Benefits of Taking Pregnancy Folic Acid?

1. Prevents Neural Tube Defects

Neural tube defects, like spina bifida, can happen in the first few weeks of pregnancy—often before you even realize you're pregnant.

That’s why it's crucial to start taking folic acid early. The CDC confirms that folic acid can lower the risk of these defects by up to 70%.

2. Supports Brain and Spine Development

Your baby’s brain and spine start forming very early. If your body doesn’t get enough folic acid, the neural tube might not close the way it should—leading to serious health complications for the baby. Getting the right amount early supports proper growth in the developing baby.

3. Reduces Risk of Birth Defects

Folic acid is also known to reduce the risk of other birth defects, not just those in the spine. It plays a role in how your baby’s body develops during early pregnancy.

The American Medical Association recommends starting with 400 mcg daily for all women of childbearing age.

4. Helps with Red Blood Cell Formation

This B vitamin helps form healthy red blood cells, which your body needs more of during pregnancy.

Low levels can lead to folate deficiency, making you feel tired or weak. A daily prenatal vitamin often covers this need.

5. Lowers Risk of Pregnancy Complications

Some studies show folic acid may reduce certain pregnancy complications, like preeclampsia. Women with a family history of complications may need additional folic acid as recommended by their fertility specialists.

It’s also found in citrus fruits, healthy foods, and fortified foods, though supplements help ensure consistency.

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When Should You Start Taking Folic Acid Supplements in Early Pregnancy?

If you’re planning to get pregnant, start taking folic acid supplements at least one month before conception. That’s because neural tube defects—like spina bifida—can begin forming in the first few weeks of pregnancy, often before you even know you’re expecting.

The American Medical Association recommends 400 mcg of folic acid daily for most women. But if you’ve had previous pregnancies affected by NTDs, your doctor may suggest a higher dose.

“NTDs happen in the very first month of pregnancy, often before a woman knows she is pregnant.” – CDC

Even with a balanced diet, it's hard to get enough folic acid from food alone. While it's found naturally in greens, legumes, and citrus, adding folic acid through supplements is a safer choice for many women—including those not actively trying but still within childbearing age.

How Much Folic Acid Do You Need During Pregnancy and Childbearing Age?

Not sure how much folic acid you actually need? Don’t worry—it’s not the same for everyone. Here’s a quick breakdown based on your stage, health needs, and pregnancy history so you can see what’s right for you at a glance.

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Should You Take a Higher Dose If You’re Trying to Get Pregnant?

If you’ve had a previous pregnancy affected by neural tube defects, your doctor may recommend a higher dose—up to 4,000 mcg daily. This can help prevent NTDs, especially during the early weeks after conception.

Most women can meet their needs with a standard dose, but higher amounts are prescribed in special cases. Pairing folic acid with other nutrients like vitamin D may also support a healthier start.

Always talk to your doctor before changing your dosage—especially if you're planning to get pregnant soon or have any family history of complications.

What Are the Best Food Sources and Fortified Foods for Folic Acid?

Wondering where to actually get folic acid from your food? Some sources are natural, while others are fortified to help you meet daily needs. Here’s a quick look at foods that can make it easier to stay on track.

FAQs

1. What happens if you don't take folic acid while pregnant?

Skipping folic acid increases the risk of neural tube defects like spina bifida in your baby. It can also lead to folate deficiency, which may cause fatigue or anemia.

2. Does folic acid help you get pregnant faster?

It doesn't speed up conception directly, but it creates a healthier environment for fertility and supports early fetal development right after conception.

3. Which folic acid tablet is best for conceiving?

Look for tablets with 400 mcg of folic acid, unless your doctor recommends a higher dose. A basic prenatal vitamin usually includes this amount.

4. Can folic acid tablet be used to boost ovulation?

Folic acid isn’t a fertility drug, but it can support ovarian health and overall hormone function. It's often part of a broader fertility support plan.

5. When is the best time to take folic acid for fertility?

Start at least one month before trying to get pregnant and continue through the first trimester.

6. How can I boost my fertility to get pregnant?

Focus on a nutrient-rich diet, manage stress, track your cycle, and speak to a doctor about supplements like folic acid and vitamin D.

Conclusion

If you’re reading this, chances are you care deeply about making informed choices for your health—and your future baby’s. That’s exactly why understanding the role of pregnancy folic acid is so important. It’s not just about ticking off a vitamin on your to-do list; it’s about preparing your body with the nutrients it needs before and during pregnancy.

Even if you eat well, it’s hard to get the recommended amount from food alone. That’s where folic acid supplements can help fill the gap with consistency.

What makes folic acid especially unique is how early it goes to work—supporting the neural tube, forming the brain and spinal cord, and even helping create healthy blood cells. These processes happen quickly, often before you’ve even missed a period. That’s why starting early matters.

Whether you're trying to conceive or simply planning ahead, talk to your doctor about the right dose for your body. And remember, a little preparation now can help lay a strong foundation for a healthy pregnancy later. It's a simple daily habit, but one that quietly protects, supports, and strengthens—without asking much in return. You don’t need to know everything to get started. You just need to start.

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