Taking folic acid supplements before conception and in the first trimester of pregnancy is crucial for preventing neural tube defects. The US Preventive Services Task Force recommends a daily supplement of 0.4 mg to 0.8 mg of folic acid. Folic acid is not linked to maternal cancer or autism. Neural tube defects affect around 3000 pregnancies annually. Folic acid deficiency is common due to various factors. Neural tube formation occurs early in pregnancy, emphasizing the importance of preconception folic acid supplementation.
Primary care physicians play a significant role in educating patients about folic acid benefits. Patients should consider taking multivitamins containing folic acid. Preconception counseling is essential for patients trying to conceive. At-risk patients should consult with their physicians for personalized folic acid dosage recommendations.
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by Brittany Var... at www.medscape.com 08-01-2023
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