Is it necessary to take folic acid tablets during pregnancy?

Question

My doc gave me folic acid but i sometimes forget to take it na. Eating healthy anyway so wondering how important is the tablet actually. Is it really a must or can diet cover it? im 8 weeks.

Amisha Bangera · Answer

Oh, I know how hard it is to take pills when you feel like throwing up 24/7! But folic acid is one thing you absolutely cannot skip. Try taking it with a small bite of toast or cold water right before you sleep so you don't throw it up.

Kavipriya Patel · Answer

My doctor put me on folic acid even before we started conceiving! I am still pregnant and taking it daily without miss. Did your doctor also prescribe calcium and iron along with it, or do we start those later?

Prabha Velayutham · Answer

Yes, it is absolutely essential, especially in the first 12 weeks of pregnancy. Folic acid prevents neural tube defects, which are serious brain and spine issues in the baby. Try not to skip even a single day, it is a very basic but critical supplement.

Rukmini Sen · Answer

I completely understand how overwhelming it feels to swallow multiple pills daily, especially when you are already feeling sick. But please know that folic acid is extremely important for the baby's brain and spinal cord. Try to take it at night if daytime makes you anxious or nauseated.

Avani Rane · Answer

My doctor explained that our regular diet doesn't provide the 400mcg of folic acid needed to prevent congenital birth defects. She emphasized that taking this tablet daily during the first trimester is non-negotiable for safe baby development. So yes, it is highly necessary.

Jayalakshmi Anand · Answer

Even though my mother suggested eating leafy greens and beetroot for natural folate, she also agreed that the tablet is must. My saas made sure I had my folic acid tablet daily right after breakfast. Don't skip it, it's very important for the baby's growth.

Shilpa Rao · Answer

Eating spinach, broccoli, and dal ghar pe is great for natural folate, but you absolutely still need the folic acid tablets as advised by your doctor. Please don't rely only on diet for this. If the tablets are making you feel sick or constipated, discuss it with your gynac for a better alternative.