Q: Ma’am, is it right for a pregnant woman who has passed twelve weeks to continue with folic acid because when I went for antenatal visit, the doctor didn’t give me the folic acid? I thought, maybe, he forgot, so I continued in taking it. NB, I was past the twelve-week mark then.

A: World Health Organization recommends that pregnant women receive folic acid and iron tablets daily. Folic acid prevents neural tube defects which may occur during the first 28days of pregnancy. This is usually the period when quite a number of women do not even know they are pregnant. Thus, women who plan on getting pregnant should start on folic acid supplements at least 3 months before their planned date to safeguard against neural tube defects. If you haven’t started this earlier and realize you’re pregnant, start taking them as soon as possible.

So, ask your doctor why he didn’t give you this. Perhaps, he gave you some other supplements that contain folic acid. Please check this with him as soon as possible so that you don’t take too much of a good thing J

By the way, it’s also a great idea never to assume why your doctor does anything. ALWAYS ask him/her why they advise or do anything, if you’re not clear.

Have a great night, y’all 😀