Does taking folic acid tablets help with conception?

Jul 18, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health
Disease description:

Before getting pregnant, my friend suggested that I take folic acid tablets for three months to help maintain a healthy condition. I have never taken them before, so I would like to know, will taking folic acid tablets help with becoming pregnant?

Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Zhao Xiaodong
Taking folic acid tablets has a certain auxiliary effect on pregnancy, mainly reflected in the following aspects: 1. Prevention of fetal neural tube defects: Folic acid, also known as vitamin B9, is essential for cell growth, division, and proliferation in the human body, and is a critical component for normal neural tube development in the embryo. Supplementing with folic acid can effectively prevent congenital neural tube malformations in the fetus, which is one of the major causes of neonatal death. 2. Increased chance of conception: Although folic acid itself does not directly improve fertility rates, it can indirectly help increase the likelihood of successful conception by maintaining a woman's overall health, such as preventing anemia. 3. Promotion of maternal health during pregnancy: Folic acid not only benefits fetal development, but also reduces the risk of anemia and hypertension during pregnancy, helping the mother maintain good health throughout pregnancy. It is recommended that women take an appropriate amount of folic acid during the preconception period and early pregnancy, following a doctor's advice or relevant guidelines.