What is the recommended folic acid intake during preconception and pregnancy?

The recommended folic acid intake during preconception and pregnancy is particularly crucial for the healthy development of the fetus, especially in reducing the risk of neural tube defects. A daily intake of 400 to 800 micrograms of folic acid is advised for women who are planning to conceive and those who are already pregnant.

This amount is considered sufficient to support cellular growth, DNA synthesis, and the overall development of the nervous system in the early stages of pregnancy, as this is when the neural tube forms. Adequate folic acid intake is essential before conception and during the early weeks of pregnancy, often before many women realize they are pregnant.

The guidelines emphasize that women should start taking folic acid at least one month prior to conception and continue through at least the first trimester of pregnancy. While higher doses might be prescribed in certain medical contexts—such as for women with a history of neural tube defects—general recommendations for the average pregnant woman are safely within the 400 to 800 microgram range.