Folic acid tablets are prescribed to every pregnant woman as soon as the diagnosis of pregnancy is confirmed. Folic acid intake is essential, especially during first trimester or first three months of pregnancy as this time is crucial for the development of the nervous system and brain of your child in which folic acid plays a vital role. Read on to find important facts about folic acid and the bad effects its deficiency can have on the health of your baby.
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Facts About Folic Acid
- Folic acid is a member of the vitamin B complex.
- It is also known as pteroylglutamic acid.
- It is necessary for the formation of the red blood cells.
- Daily requirement of folic acid in the non-pregnant state is about 50 micro gram.
- During pregnancy this is increased to 800 micro gram.
Natural Source Of Folic Acid
Folic acid is found naturally in:
- Green plants
- Liver
- Yeast
5 Bad Effects Of Folic Acid Deficiency In Pregnant Woman
Folic acid deficiency is responsible for a number of diseases and conditions detrimental to the health of both mother and the child, such as:
1. Anencephaly
- It is a congenital neural tube defect (NTD) in which there is an absence of brain and cranial vault
- Cerebral hemispheres of the child are either completely missing or reduced in size to small masses.
- Survival of a child affected with this condition is not possible.
2. Spina Bifida
- Another neural tube defect (NTD) found in the walls of the spinal canal.
- It is caused by lack of union between the laminae of the vertebrae.
- Mostly the lumbar portion of the spine is affected.
3. Megaloblastic anemia of pregnancy/Folic acid deficiency anemia
- Symptoms are fatigue, reduced appetite, nausea and vomiting, diarrhea, and depression.
- Urinary tract infection is usually associated.
- Soreness in the mouth may be present
- Purpura (purple patches in the skin due to hemorrhage) is sometimes present.
4. Low Birth Weight Of The Baby
- Deficiency of folic acid in the maternal blood causes an anemic condition in the mother, as a result baby receives insufficient nutrition.
- This may have a bad effect on the proper growth of the child leading to a low birth weight.
5. Premature Separation Of Placenta From Uterus
- Premature separation of a normally situated placenta after the 20th week of pregnancy is known as abruptio placentae.
- One of the probable causes of this condition is folic acid deficiency.
- It is a serious condition which may lead to death of the baby in the womb.
- Hidden or apparent bleeding occurs associated with pain.
Recommended Dosage Of Folic Acid In Early Pregnancy
- Daily dose of 4mg of FOLVITE (trade name of folic acid) is recommended, especially during first 3 months of pregnancy.
Recommended Dosage Of Folic Acid Before Pregnancy
- Its even better to start taking folic acid (daily dose of 4 mg Folvite) 3 months before conceiving and continue till the first three months of pregnancy.
Please Note:
- Regular visits to the gynaecologist and pre-natal checkups during pregnancy are must for the well being of mother and the child.
- Content of this post is informative in nature and cannot replace a face to face consultation and advice of your gynaecologist.
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