Folic acid supplements may be effective at reducing the risk of neural tube defects such as myelomeningocele. Folic acid (folate) deficiencies must be corrected BEFORE becoming pregnant as the defects develop very early. Prospective mothers may be screened to determine their serum folate level. It is recommended that any woman considering becoming pregnant take 0.4mg of folic acid a day. Pregnant women need 1 mg per day.
Review Date: 11/10/2004
Reviewed By: John Goldenring, M.D., M.P.H., Department of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital, San Diego, CA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
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