Your baby will benefit if you take folic acid supplements before you get pregnant and in the first 12 weeks of pregnancy. Currently, it’s recommended that you take a 400 microgramme (0.4milligramme/mg) folic acid tablet every day starting when you are trying to get pregnant and for the first 12 weeks of pregnancy.
However, for women who are overweight with a body mass index of over 30*, a higher dose of folic acid is required and you should attend your GP to discuss this.
*to work out your BMI – you need to know your height and weight – visit NHS inform to find out more and calculate your BMI: NHS Inform BMI Calculator
You are entitled to free folic acid (and other vitamins) through Healthy Start when you are pregnant. Ask your midwife for more information. You should also eat foods rich in folate such as:
- Green Vegetables
- Fortified Cereals
- Oranges
- Berries
- Potatoes
- Lentils
Speak to your midwife if you have had a previous pregnancy with a neural tube defect, are on medication for epilepsy, or have diabetes, as you might need a higher dose which is only available on prescription.
Click here for the latest recommendations on Folic Acid from ‘Ready, Steady, Baby’.
The information presented on this site is for general use only and is not intended for people living with any medical conditions who are seeking personal medical advice; it is not a substitute for the advice of your doctor or midwife. If you have any questions or concerns about individual health matters or the management of your condition, please consult your local GP or midwife.
