2024-09-20 23:55:24
When a woman decides to become a mother, the doctor starts giving her some special supplements which also includes folic acid. Folic acid is given not only before conception but also during pregnancy. It is also necessary for conceiving and for the development of the baby in the womb during pregnancy.
Some women are also given high doses of folic acid during pregnancy because they are at risk of various medical conditions such as neural tube defects or severe anemia. Folic acid is very important in prenatal care and is essential for both the mother and the baby. Read on to know why it is important to take folic acid tablets during pregnancy.
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what is folic acid
According to an article published on the website of Motherhood Women’s and Children’s Hospital, folic acid is a type of vitamin B. It is important in making DNA and red blood cells and in cell division. Folic acid helps in faster cell growth and tissue formation which is essential for the development of the fetus. Now let us know what are the benefits of folic acid tablets given during pregnancy.
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There are no neural tube defects
Neural tube defects are congenital diseases that affect the brain and spine of the baby. Neural tube defects can be prevented by taking folic acid and this is the main reason why women are given folic acid tablets during pregnancy. Some of the most common disorders in neural tube defects are spina bifida, anencephaly and brain abnormalities.
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the baby’s brain develops
Taking folic acid tablets also helps in the development of the nervous system of the foetus and lays a strong foundation for its intellectual development. Apart from this, it also helps in the development of the placenta. With the proper development of the placenta, the foetus gets adequate oxygen and nutrients.
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There is no risk of miscarriage
Women who take folic acid during pregnancy have a very low risk of miscarriage. Folic acid also helps prevent preterm birth. Apart from this, it also reduces the risk of preeclampsia. In this condition, blood pressure increases a lot.
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These risks remain low
Folic acid tablets also reduce the risk of autism in your child. Many studies have been done on this. Folic acid tablets can reduce the risk of cleft lip or palate. In this, the upper part of the child’s lip or palate does not join with each other.
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