Folate supplementation for pregnant people

Pregnancy is a common cause of folate deficiency because the requirement for folate doubles. Adequate intake of folate around the time of conception and during early pregnancy reduces the risk of neural tube defects (spina bifida and anencephaly).

All people planning pregnancy are advised to consume a diet adequate in folate, which would include at least five servings of folate-rich vegetables or fortified whole grains daily (see Dietary sources of key vitamins, minerals and trace elements for dietary sources). However, as this is often unachievable, a folic acid supplement is recommended routinely. Suitable regimens include:

Supplementation should start at least 1 month before conception and continue for the first 3 months of pregnancyThe Women's.

High-dose folate supplementation is recommended if there is a risk of malabsorption or a known increased risk of neural tube defects (eg females who have had a child with a neural tube defect or have a family history of neural tube defects, those taking drugs that affect folate metabolism [eg sulfasalazine], those with diabetes or obesity)The Women's. Use:

High-dose supplementation should start at least 3 months before conception and continue for the first 3 months of pregnancyRudland, 2020. For people taking drugs that affect folate metabolism, it is generally recommended that supplementation continue throughout their pregnancy.