Folic Acid in Pregnancy: How Much You Need and When to Start

Folic Acid in Pregnancy: How Much You Need and When to Start Taking It

Folic acid — the synthetic form of folate (vitamin B9) — is one of the most important nutrients during early pregnancy. It plays a critical role in the development of the baby's neural tube, which forms the brain and spinal cord. Getting enough folic acid before and during the early weeks of pregnancy significantly reduces the risk of neural tube defects such as spina bifida.

Why Is Folic Acid So Important in Pregnancy?

The neural tube forms within the first 28 days of pregnancy — often before many women even know they are pregnant. This is why the NHS recommends that all women planning a pregnancy start taking folic acid before conception, not just once they have a positive test.

NHS guidance recommends taking 400mcg (0.4mg) of folic acid daily from before conception through to the end of the first trimester (12 weeks). Some women may be advised to take a higher dose of 5mg (prescribed by a GP) if they have specific risk factors, including a personal or family history of neural tube defects, Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes, taking certain anti-epileptic medications, or a BMI over 30.

When Should You Start Taking Folic Acid?

Ideally, begin taking 400mcg of folic acid at least one month before you start trying to conceive — or as soon as you decide to try for a baby. If you are already pregnant and have not yet started, begin taking it straight away and continue until you are at least 12 weeks pregnant.

If you are not planning a pregnancy but are of childbearing age, many healthcare professionals recommend taking folic acid regularly anyway, as around half of pregnancies in the UK are unplanned.

Can You Get Enough Folic Acid from Food Alone?

Folate is found naturally in dark leafy vegetables (spinach, kale, broccoli), legumes, fortified breakfast cereals, and eggs. However, the amount needed to protect against neural tube defects during early pregnancy is difficult to achieve through diet alone. A supplement is strongly recommended by the NHS for all women in the first trimester.

Folic Acid Pregnancy Supplement from Arc Health Nutrition

Folic Acid 400mcg Pregnancy Tablets — 365 Tablets

Our folic acid pregnancy supplement provides exactly 400mcg per tablet — the dose recommended by the NHS for pre-conception and first trimester support. With 365 tablets per pack, you have a full year's supply. Suitable for vegetarians and vegans. Manufactured to GMP standards.

Key Points to Remember

• Start folic acid before you conceive — ideally at least one month before
• Continue throughout the first trimester (up to 12 weeks pregnant)
• The recommended dose is 400mcg per day for most women
• Speak to your GP if you may need the higher 5mg prescription dose

Folic acid contributes to maternal tissue growth during pregnancy, normal amino acid synthesis, normal blood formation, and a reduction in tiredness and fatigue.