Dose of folic acid during pregnancy. Folic acid during pregnancy: why expectant mothers are prescribed drugs, and what products contain it

People have known about the benefits of vitamin B9 (folic acid) for a long time, but only relatively recently, doctors began to actively promote the use of this substance among the population. Folic acid is prescribed during the period of bearing a child, it is included in complex therapy in the treatment of heart disease, there is a lot of controversy about how this vitamin is capable of provoking the development of cancer or it is an inhibitory factor in the growth of cancer cells. Only one thing is indisputable - folic acid is needed by the body of every person, but its intake is especially important for women.

Features of folic acid

The benefits of vitamins and minerals are known to all. Many of us know what calcium and magnesium are, why iron is needed in the body, and what effect vitamins B6, B12, A and C, PP and D have. Vitamin B9, folic acid, in which the active substance is folate, remains undeservedly forgotten.

Note:folic acid cannot be produced by the body itself, and its ability to accumulate in tissues and organs is zero. Even if a person introduces the maximum amount of foods containing vitamin B9 into his diet, the body will absorb less than half of the original volume. The main disadvantage of folic acid is that it destroys itself even with a slight heat treatment (storage of the product in a room with room temperature is enough).

Folates are a fundamental component in the process of DNA synthesis and maintaining its integrity. In addition, it is vitamin B9 that contributes to the production of specific enzymes by the body, which are actively involved in the prevention of the formation of malignant tumors.

The lack of folic acid in the body was detected in people aged 20-45 years, in pregnant and lactating women. This can lead to the development of megaloblastic anemia (oncology associated with a decrease in DNA synthesis), the birth of children with developmental defects. There are also certain clinical symptoms indicating a lack of folic acid in the body - fever, often diagnosed inflammatory processes, disorders in the digestive system (diarrhea, nausea, anorexia), hyperpigmentation.

Important:natural folic acid is absorbed much worse than synthetic: taking 0.6 μg of a substance in the form of a medication is equal to 0.01 mg of folic acid in its natural form.

How to take folic acid

The National Academy of Sciences in 1998 published a general instruction on the use of folic acid. The dosage according to these data will be as follows:

• optimal - 400 mcg per day per person;
• minimum - 200 mcg per person;
• during pregnancy - 400 mcg;
• during lactation - 600 mcg.

note: in any case, the dosage of vitamin B9 is set on an individual basis and the above values ​​can only be used for a general understanding of the daily dosage of the drug. There are clear restrictions on the daily amount of the substance under consideration when planning pregnancy and during the period of bearing / feeding a child, as well as in the case of the use of folic acid for the prevention of cancer.

Folic acid and pregnancy

Folic acid is responsible for DNA synthesis, it is actively involved in cell division, in their restoration. Therefore, the drug in question must be taken both during pregnancy planning, and during the period of bearing a child, and during breastfeeding.

Folic acid is given to women who have stopped taking birth control and are planning a baby. It is necessary to start using the substance in question as soon as the decision is made to conceive and give birth to a child - the importance of the absolute abundance of folic acid in the mother's body in the first days / weeks of pregnancy is difficult to assess. The fact is that at the age of two weeks, the brain is already beginning to form in the embryo - at this time, a woman may not be aware of pregnancy. In the early stages of pregnancy, the baby's nervous system is also formed - folic acid is necessary for proper cell division and the formation of an absolutely healthy body. Why do gynecologists prescribe vitamin B9 to women when planning a pregnancy? The substance in question takes an active part in hematopoiesis, which occurs during the formation of the placenta - with a lack of folic acid, pregnancy can result in a miscarriage.

A lack of folic acid in a woman's body during her pregnancy can lead to the development of birth defects:

• "hare lip";
• hydrocephalus;
• "cleft palate";
• neural tube defect;
• violation of the mental and intellectual development of the child.

Ignoring folic acid prescriptions from a gynecologist can lead to premature birth, placental abruption, stillbirth, miscarriage - according to scientific studies, in 75% of cases, this development can be prevented by taking folic acid 2-3 months before pregnancy.

After childbirth, it is also not worth interrupting the course of taking the substance in question - postpartum depression, apathy, general weakness are the result of a lack of folic acid in the body of the mother. In addition, in the absence of additional introduction of folates into the body, there is a deterioration in the quality of breast milk, its quantity decreases, which affects the growth and development of the child.

Dosage of folic acid during pregnancy and lactation

During the period of planning and carrying a pregnancy, doctors prescribe folic acid to a woman in the amount of 400-600 mcg per day. During breastfeeding, the body needs a higher dosage - up to 600 mcg per day. In some cases, women are prescribed a dose of 800 micrograms of folic acid per day, but only a gynecologist should make such a decision based on the results of the examination of the woman's body. An increased dosage of the substance in question is prescribed for:

• Diabetes mellitus and epilepsy diagnosed in a woman;
• existing congenital diseases in the family;
• the need to constantly take medications (they make it difficult for the body to absorb folic acid);
• the birth of earlier children with a history of folate-dependent diseases.

Important : in what quantities a woman should take folic acid during the periods of planning / bearing pregnancy and lactation, the gynecologist should indicate. It is strictly forbidden to choose a “convenient” dosage on your own.

If a woman is absolutely healthy, then vitamin B9 is prescribed in the form of multivitamin preparations that a woman needs when planning a pregnancy and bearing a child. They are sold in pharmacies and are intended for expectant mothers - Elevit, Pregnavit, Vitrum Prenatal and others.

If the need for an increased dosage of folic acid is identified, a woman is prescribed drugs with a high content of vitamin B9 - Folacin, Apo-Folic.

note: to know exactly how many capsules / tablets to take per day, you need to study the instructions for the drug and get advice from a gynecologist.

The principle of using preparations containing folic acid is simple: before or during meals, drinking plenty of water.

Overdose and contraindications

Recently, it has become "fashionable" to prescribe folic acid to pregnant women in the amount of 5 mg per day - apparently, they want to fill the body with vitamin B9 for sure. This is absolutely wrong! Despite the fact that excess folic acid is excreted from the body 5 hours after intake, an increased dosage of folic acid can lead to the development of anemia, increased excitability, kidney dysfunction, and disorders of the gastrointestinal tract. It is believed that the maximum allowable dose of folic acid per day is 1 mg, 5 mg per day is a therapeutic dose that is prescribed for diseases of the cardiovascular system and other parts of the body.

Should be clarified : even with an overdose of folic acid as prescribed by a doctor, there is no negative effect on the intrauterine development of the fetus. Only the body of the expectant mother suffers.

A contraindication to the appointment of folic acid is an individual intolerance to the substance or hypersensitivity to it. If such a disorder was not detected before the appointment, then after taking preparations with vitamin B9, a rash and itching on the skin, facial flushing (redness), and bronchospasm may appear. If these symptoms appear, you should immediately stop taking the prescribed drugs and inform your doctor about it.

The benefits of folic acid for pregnant women are described in detail in the video review:

Folic acid in foods

Folic acid and cancer: evidence from official studies

Many sources indicate that folic acid is prescribed in the treatment of cancer. But on this occasion, the opinions of scientists / doctors are divided - some studies confirm that it is this substance that can inhibit the growth of cancer cells and serve as a preventive measure in oncology, but others have indicated the growth of malignant tumors when taking drugs with folic acid.

Overall Cancer Risk Assessment with Folic Acid

The results of a large study assessing the overall risk of developing cancer in patients taking folic acid supplements were published in January 2013 in The Lancet.

“This study provides confidence in the safety of taking folic acid for a period not exceeding five years, both in the form of supplements and in the form of fortified foods.”

The study involved about 50,000 volunteers, who were divided into 2 groups: the first group was regularly given folic acid preparations, the other group was given a placebo "dummy". The folic acid group had 7.7% (1904) new cases of cancer, while the placebo group had 7.3% (1809) new cases. A marked increase in the overall incidence of cancer was not seen even in people with a high average intake of folic acid (40 mg per day), experts say.

Risks of developing breast cancer when taking folic acid

In January 2014, the results of another study were published. Scientists have studied the risks of developing breast cancer in women taking folic acid. Canadian researchers at St. Michael's Hospital in Toronto, including Dr. Yong-In-Kim, lead author of the study, found that folic acid supplements taken by breast cancer patients can promote the growth of malignant cells.

Previously, some scientists argued that folate is able to protect against various types of cancer, including breast cancer. However, studies by Canadian scientists have shown that folic acid intake at a dosage of 2.5 mg 5 times a day for 2-3 consecutive months significantly contributes to the growth of existing precancerous or cancerous cells in the mammary glands. rodents. Important: this dosage is many times higher than the dosage recommended for humans.

Folic acid and prostate cancer risks

In March 2009, the Journal of the National Cancer Institute published the results of a study of the relationship between folic acid intake and the risk of developing prostate cancer.

Scientists from the University of Southern California, in particular, study author Jane Figueiredo, found that taking vitamin supplements with folic acid more than doubles the risk of developing prostate cancer.

The researchers followed the health status of 643 male volunteers for more than six and a half years, with an average age of about 57 years. All men were divided into 2 groups: the first group received folic acid (1 mg) daily, the second group was given a placebo. During this time, 34 study participants were diagnosed with prostate cancer. Based on their data, scientists calculated the likelihood of developing prostate cancer in all participants for 10 years and came to the conclusion that 9.7% of people from the 1st group (taking folic acid) and only 3.3% can get cancer. men from the second group (taking "pacifiers").

Folic acid and throat cancer

In 2006, scientists at the Catholic University of the Sacred Heart found that taking large doses of folic acid helps regress leukoplakia of the larynx (a precancerous disease that precedes cancer of the larynx).

The experiment involved 43 people who were diagnosed with leukoplakia of the larynx. They took 5 mg of folic acid 3 times a day. The results of the study, published by its leader Giovanni Almadori, surprised physicians: regression was recorded in 31 patients. In 12 - a complete cure, in 19 - a decrease in spots by 2 or more times. Italian scientists analyzed and found that in the blood of patients with head and neck cancer, as well as patients suffering from laryngeal leukoplakia, the concentration of folic acid is reduced. Based on this, a hypothesis was put forward about a low level of folate as a provoking factor in the development and progression of oncological diseases.

Folic acid and colon cancer

Previously, scientists from the American Cancer Society proved that vitamin B9 significantly reduces the risk of development - it is enough to consume folic acid in the form of natural products (spinach, meat, liver, animal kidneys, sorrel) or synthetic preparations.

Tim Byers found that patients who took dietary folic acid supplements had an increase in the number of polyps in the intestines (polyps are considered precancerous conditions). Important: the scientists emphasized that we are talking about the use of drugs, and not products containing folates.

Note: most of the studies confirming the increased risk of malignant neoplasms are based on taking doses many times higher than the minimum recommended. Remember that the recommended dose is 200-400 micrograms. Most folic acid preparations contain 1 mg of folate, which is 2.5 to 5 times the daily value!

Tsygankova Yana Alexandrovna, medical observer, therapist of the highest qualification category

Especially during the planning period, almost every doctor prescribes. Interestingly, even ardent opponents of any drugs during pregnancy, folic acid is favorably treated. And not in vain, because the lack of this vitamin (and folic acid is vitamin B9) in the body of a future mother is fraught with many unpleasant consequences. Folic acid is of great importance during pregnancy, as it takes part in DNA synthesis, participates in the process of cell division and growth, as well as in the process of hematopoiesis, it is essential when laying the fetal nervous system, prevents the appearance of defects in the brain, neural tube, etc. d.

Doctors say that a serious deficiency of folic acid is observed in every second pregnant woman. And it is extremely dangerous both for the unborn baby and for the mother herself. Folic acid deficiency causes:

• the formation of defects in the nervous system (absence of the brain, cerebral hernia, spina bifida, dropsy of the brain);
• possible defects of the cardiovascular system and splitting of the lips;
• violation of the processes of formation of the placenta;
• an increased likelihood of miscarriages, placental abruption, fetal growth retardation and other troubles.

It’s not worth rushing from one extreme to another, and many, unfortunately, do just that: optimists do not believe in the “doctors’ prophecies”, and pessimists after the first paragraph are ready to run to the pharmacy and swallow tons of everything that can eliminate folacin deficiency. But, as they say, in everything you need to observe the "golden mean". In this case, it is better to listen to the doctors and during pregnancy do not refuse to take folic acid. The main thing is to correctly set the dosage of this vitamin, taking into account the needs of your body.

Doctors believe that an adult's need for vitamin B9 is 200 micrograms (0.2 mg). During pregnancy, it naturally increases. The minimum "daily dose" becomes 400 mcg (0.4 mg), and the maximum - 800 mcg (0.8 mg) of folic acid. If the pregnant woman is at risk (i.e. vitamin B9 deficiency is proven), then the daily dose increases to 5 mg of folacin.

But how to understand these dosages and pharmaceutical preparations of folic acid? Firstly, we carefully study the instructions, and secondly, we listen to the recommendations of the doctor.

The most common are folic acid tablets, which contain 1,000 micrograms (1 mg) of folic acid. Doctors recommend taking one tablet of this drug during pregnancy. Overdose in this case is impossible.

However, with a pronounced deficiency of vitamin B9 in the "pregnant" body, most likely you will be prescribed a more "strong" drug: Folacin or Apo-Folic. One tablet of these drugs contains 5000 mcg (5 mg) of folic acid, and these are already therapeutic doses.

You should also consider the composition of other "pregnant" vitamins that you are taking. Usually, all complex vitamin preparations contain the right dose of folic acid. For example, the Folio preparation contains 400 mcg of folic acid and 200 mcg of iodine, in the preparations Materna and Elevit - 1000 mcg each, Vitrum prenatal - 800 mcg, Multi-tabs - 400 mcg, Pregnavit - 750 mcg of vitamin B9. If you are taking any of these or other drugs, you will not need to take folic acid supplements. Unless, of course, there is a deficiency of the necessary vitamin.

And finally, the question of taking folic acid is no less important: is an overdose possible and why is it dangerous for the child and the expectant mother? Folic acid is absolutely non-toxic to humans. Its excess is independently excreted from the body, however, long-term use of high doses of folic acid is fraught with a certain threat: the content of vitamin B12 in the blood decreases, and this can lead to anemia, gastrointestinal disorders may occur, functional changes in the kidneys, often observed increased nervous excitability. This happens if you take 10-15 mg of folic acid daily for 3 months or more. It is unlikely that an adequate woman will swallow 15 folacin tablets in one day.

And for those who are still firmly on the “drug-free” pregnancy, we offer a set of products that contain a large amount of vitamin B9: vegetables with dark green leaves (green peas, beans, lentils, spinach, broccoli, parsley, green onions, cabbage , soybeans, beets, asparagus, carrots, tomatoes), some fruits (watermelon, peaches), wholemeal bakery products, wheat germ, rice, oatmeal and buckwheat, milk powder, kefir, sunflower seeds, cheese, egg yolk, caviar, beef liver. It is no secret that a complete balanced diet makes up for vitamin deficiencies in every body. In any case, even if we are talking about folic acid, and everyone around is saying: It is necessary! - Do not make a decision without consulting a doctor.

Health to you and your peanuts in the belly!

Especially for- Tanya Kivezhdiy

(vitamin B9) is a vital vitamin. It is involved in metabolic processes, including DNA synthesis, is responsible for the formation of blood cells, is necessary for the formation of immunity, and improves the functioning of the gastrointestinal tract. The vitamin is especially important for pregnant women., because it is involved in the formation of the neural tube of the fetus, preventing malformations of its development. In addition, folic acid plays an important role in the formation of the placenta.

Folic acid deficiency does not always show visible symptoms. But at the same time, studies have shown that vitamin B9 deficiency is observed in 20-100% of the population, depending on the region. This is one of the most common vitamin deficiencies.. At the same time, even in the absence of any clinical manifestations, the risk of heart attacks and strokes increases, immunity decreases.

First of all, with a deficiency of folic acid, anemia occurs. With this type of anemia, not only the number of red blood cells decreases, but their function is also impaired, since most of them leave the bone marrow immature. If this deficit is not corrected, symptoms such as loss of appetite, irritability, fatigue occur, followed by vomiting, diarrhea, and hair loss. Skin changes, painful sores in the mouth and throat may appear.

Folic acid deficiency during pregnancy primarily affects the nervous system of the fetus, increases the risk of developing hydrocephalus, anencephaly (absence of the brain), cerebral hernia, delayed mental and physical development of the unborn child. There is a high risk of defects in the spinal column, for example, its non-closure ("open back"). In addition, a deficiency of this vitamin can cause premature termination of pregnancy, placental insufficiency.

The need for a vitamin in an adult is 200 mcg per day, in pregnant women - 400 mcg per day.

What foods contain folic acid:

The main source of the vitamin is wholemeal flour. This vitamin is also abundant in spinach, parsley, lettuce, green peas, beans. Relatively large amounts of folic acid are present in citrus fruits and their juices, in asparagus and avocados. Of animal products, it is the richest liver. In a much smaller amount, it is present in fish, meat, cheeses.

Vegetarians are not usually deficient in folic acid, as they eat a lot of plant foods, including greens. But if you do not use them constantly in large quantities, then you need to additionally take folic acid in the form of tablets and as part of vitamins, since in this case it is enough it is difficult to meet the body's need for folic acid only through food especially during the cold season.

With a normal composition of the intestinal microflora, a small amount of folic acid can be synthesized by the body on its own.

Accelerates the excretion of the drug from the body strong tea. In addition, some drugs increase the need for folic acid: oral contraceptives, antacids (400 mcg, in Pregnawit- 750 mcg. That is, in all preparations there is a sufficient prophylactic dose, so the dose of folic acid should be selected taking into account its preparation in a multivitamin complex. If you are not deficient in folic acid, you do not need to take additional folic acid if you are taking any prenatal vitamins.

When should the drug be taken?

The drug is most important during pregnancy. The need for pregnancy is 400 mcg (according to some sources, 800 mcg) per day, but if there is a vitamin deficiency in the body, a large dose is required to compensate for this deficiency. The neural tube begins to form on the 16-28th day after conception. These days, a woman may not be aware of her pregnancy, and may not start taking folic acid on time. That's why the drug is prescribed at the stage of pregnancy planning. The most important thing is to take the drug in the first 12 weeks pregnancy.

Some women are afraid of an overdose of the drug. An overdose of the drug is extremely rare., only if you take the drug in doses hundreds of times higher than the body's need (20-30 tablets per day). In other cases, the excess of the drug is simply excreted from the body (during pregnancy, the excretion of the drug from the body is accelerated), without adversely affecting it. However, as with all medicines, allergic reactions can occur.

The drug should be taken when breastfeeding at a dose of 300 mcg per day (can be in the composition of multivitamins). This prevents the development of deficiency in both mother and baby. If you take the drug in about In larger doses (for example, one tablet of folic acid, that is, 1000 mcg), then the excess will simply be excreted from the mother's body, without adversely affecting either her or the child.

The drug must be taken at a dose exceeding the prophylactic dose, firstly if there are symptoms of a deficiency of this vitamin (in this case, the dose is selected individually, additional consultation with the therapist is required), and secondly, if there are factors that increase the intake of folic acid or accelerate its excretion. This is taking oral contraceptives before pregnancy, taking almagel or phosphalugel, anticonvulsants at the planning stage and during pregnancy, a protein diet before pregnancy, a lack of plant foods in the diet, problems with the gastrointestinal tract, vomiting in pregnant women. If you have any of the above factors, then when planning pregnancy and in the first 12 weeks, the drug should be taken 2-3 tablets per day. Besides, increase the dose of folic acid if there is a high risk of developing neural tube defects. This risk is increased in women with epilepsy, with diabetes, and if there are any malformations in relatives.

Folic acid is the only vitamin whose importance during pregnancy is not denied even by ardent opponents of artificial vitamins and drugs in general. Therefore, even if you do not want to take any "extra" drugs during pregnancy, do not refuse to take folic acid at least in preventive doses, and this will save you and your baby from many problems. Although sometimes it does not hurt to compare the dose that you will be prescribed with the body's needs for this vitamin.

Folic acid belongs to the group of vitamins B, is vitamin B9. It should be noted that today more than half of the world's population suffer from a deficiency of an important element. The deterioration of environmental conditions influenced this, and the food culture also changed.

More and more people prefer quick snacks that are rich in salt, spices, animal fats, but not in vital substances. Sources of folic acid are traditional vegetables - beets, carrots, cabbage, onions. A huge amount in greens, legumes, dairy products, cereals - oats and buckwheat. Pork, chicken, liver, fatty fish are also very valuable. A future mother should make a similar menu for herself, even if she is only planning a pregnancy.

Importance of folic acid

Vitamin B9 deficiency is also associated with malfunctioning of the digestive tract. The use of antibiotics affects the beneficial microflora. Intestinal diseases impair the ability to absorb acid, and therefore interfere with its entry into the blood. If, before pregnancy, a woman can feel normal with an insufficient amount of folacin, after conception, the daily rate should be regularly received. With a balanced diet, as well as taking folic acid, it is possible to prevent deviations in the development of the neural tube that occur in the first weeks after fertilization.

Many women try, only after learning about their special situation, to refuse to take any drugs. Synthesized vitamin B9 in a complex or in a separate form is absorbed much better than natural counterparts. In addition, sufficient concentration allows a pregnant woman in the first semester to avoid toxicosis, drowsiness, dizziness, nausea and blood pressure surges. The dosage of folic acid during pregnancy is from 400 to 600 mcg, which is equal to one tablet. This is the most optimal form for absorption by the body.

Mechanism of action

After fertilization, a special zygote cell is formed. It contains the genetic material, and the development of the embryo requires doubling the DNA helix. It is in this process that such an important acid takes an active part. During cell division, separate layers are formed, one of which will later become the brain. This happens in the early stages, up to 4 weeks, so the expectant mother may not even know what violent processes begin in her body.

In order for the pregnancy to proceed normally, constant renewal of the cells of the mother's body is required. Thanks to vitamin B9, the circulatory system works smoothly, protective functions protect against pathogenic factors. Good health, a stable emotional state of the mother, this is also the merit of folacin, but mood swings and increased nervousness may indicate its insufficient amount.

Folic acid is prescribed for the prevention of neural tube pathologies. Its formation occurs in the first weeks after implantation of the egg into the uterine cavity. The woman still does not feel any changes, without measurements of basal temperature and an hCG test, she will remain in the dark for some time.

If there is a significant deficiency of vitamin B9, this can lead to the development of embryo pathologies:

• absence of a brain;
• hydrocephalus;
• cerebral hernia;
• spina bifida.

The concentration also affects the state of the placenta. The probability of its exfoliation, fading of the fetus, miscarriage increases. To prevent such deviations, it is important to start taking the drug even before the onset of conception.

Dosage of vitamin B9

The daily human requirement is about 50 micrograms. But when planning, as well as after the onset of pregnancy, the doses increase several times. It must be remembered that folic acid intake does not end at the stage of childbirth. The required amount of vitamin B9 for a future mother is 400 mcg per day. If a woman practices breastfeeding, then she should continue taking such an important acid, increasing to 600 mcg. This will allow the baby to grow calm and healthy.

The dosage in tablets depends on the release drug:

• if folic acid is included in the multivitamin complex, its volume is from 300 mcg to 1 mcg, which replenishes the daily requirement of the pregnant woman;
• there are separate forms in which 1 tablet is equal to 1 mg, which is quite enough to replenish the daily allowance;
• for treatment, higher doses of up to 5 mg per day are used, therapy is carried out for no more than a month during the period of preparation for fertilization or after conception, in order to reduce the risks of already occurring pathologies of the neural tube, as well as to improve health indicators if women have hypovitaminosis or anemia;
• it is recommended to take folic acid for expectant fathers at the planning stage, the duration of the course is 3 months, the dosage is prescribed individually based on the anamnesis, with normal values ​​it is about 200 mcg, of course, after the onset of pregnancy, you can no longer take drugs.

Proper nutrition is of great importance, especially during pregnancy. Vitamin B9 is found in the liver, spinach, greens, legumes. But heat treatment partially destroys useful elements. The most optimal way to ensure the norm of folacin is to take pharmaceutical forms.

How to use

Folic acid is not toxic, so a significant excess of doses is not dangerous to health. With prolonged use (more than 3 months), it can affect the levels of vitamin B12, leading to its decrease. The drug is taken according to the instructions:

• taking the pill is carried out at about the same time, after eating, washed down with water;
• taken regularly, if one dose was missed, there is nothing wrong with that, you can resume it as soon as the opportunity arises;
• best absorbed with vitamins B 12 and C, and additional bifidobacteria contribute to the synthesis of folacin in the intestine;
• Aspirin, antacids, antiepileptic drugs, as well as alcohol, significantly reduce the concentration of acid in the blood.

A balanced diet, along with the intake of a vitamin complex, is the key to the health of the expectant mother and baby.

For women planning a child, or already in a position, doctors prescribe vitamin B9 (folate, folacin) to drink. What is it, what does it give, what does it look like in the photo and why is it useful to take folic acid during pregnancy?

Folacin is a water-soluble vitamin that is actively involved in the fundamental processes of the body. It is synthesized by bacteria that live in the intestines in small quantities. Therefore, the basic need can only be satisfied from the outside.

Prescribe acid with a shortage in the body. With a deficiency, the processes of hematopoiesis, the formation of leukocytes, platelets, erythrocytes, and the absorption of iron are disturbed. The substance is involved in the synthesis of RNA and DNA amino acids, helps the egg to mature, and maintains the optimal level of homocysteine, which is responsible for heart health.

At the beginning of gestation, acid is prescribed to prevent the development of defects in the fetal nervous system; in the later stages, it helps the expectant mother to normalize the functioning of the body. Such is the valuable effect of this vitamin.

The benefits and harms of folic acid during pregnancy

If prescribed, then it is not enough

At the beginning of gestation, an intensive division of the neural tube of the embryo occurs, and the spinal cord and brain are formed. A woman may not know that she has conceived, but important processes of the birth of a new life are already taking place in her body.

At the beginning of gestation, acid is especially useful. Its intake prevents a child from spinal fissures, congenital absence of the spinal cord or brain, cerebral hernia.

Lack of vitamin B9 is harmful because:

• increases the likelihood of mental retardation in a child;
• violates the formation of the placenta, provokes detachment, causes spontaneous abortion;
• leads to congenital malformations, fetal deformities, pathologies of the cardiovascular system, the formation of a cleft lip and a cleft palate (cleft palate).

It is necessary to take folacin at later dates. A sufficient amount of it prevents the development of postpartum depression, reduces apathy, improves lactation.

Problems can be minimized even when planning pregnancy and during the period of bearing a baby, if you take acid preparations. After all, it is impossible to create its stock, and it is difficult to get it from food.

According to statistics, folate deficiency is observed in 50% of women. Studies have shown that their regular intake during planning and at the beginning of pregnancy reduces the risk of fetal defects by 80%. In large doses, acid is harmful. Therefore, it should be taken according to the doctor's recommendations.

Symptoms of excess and lack of folic acid during pregnancy

B9 deficiency is developing rapidly. The first symptoms appear within a week, and a monthly lack of acid leads to a critical condition:

• pallor of the skin;
• irritability;
• nervousness;
• fatigue;
• low performance;
• impaired memory, attention;
• the appearance on the skin of age spots, acne;
• drastic weight loss.

These signs are nonspecific and may indicate stress or be a variant of the norm during pregnancy. But if you do not make up for the lack of acid, this is fraught with dangerous consequences for the fetus and the expectant mother.

You can accurately determine the level of folacin in the body by passing a blood test. Normal values ​​range from 7–45 nmol/l.

Very useful for the child

Instructions for use of folic acid

Vitamin B9 in tablets is the same drug as the rest. Therefore, it should not be taken without a doctor's prescription. The instructions of official manufacturers contain recommended daily and single doses, methods of taking acid, how long to use, how to use it correctly. Therefore, it is a must read for all women.

According to clinical guidelines by order 572n, the daily intake of folacin is 0.4 mg. According to other sources, in order to maintain pregnancy in the first months, it is necessary to take 0.8 mg per day. The doctor decides whether it is a lot or a little.

The medication is started 6 months before the planned conception, and the optimal duration is up to 12 weeks of gestation. In the last trimester, doctors also often advise you to consume acid.

Usually, the entire dose is given at one time. This should be done in the morning a quarter of an hour after breakfast, drinking water. Do not take folacin before meals, as it increases acidity on an empty stomach, causing problems with the gastrointestinal tract. And in pregnant women with toxicosis, it can lead to nausea, vomiting.

Doses higher than prophylactic, the doctor prescribes to pregnant women with an established deficiency of vitamin B9, as well as in the following cases:

• the presence of factors that increase folate intake or accelerate its excretion;
• high risk of anomalies of the nervous system (epilepsy, diabetes mellitus in a pregnant woman);
• the presence of malformations in a family history;
• violation of the stomach, intestines.

Reception strictly according to the prescription

What is the dosage of folic acid for pregnant women

Folacin deficiency is especially critical in the earliest stages, in the first 2 weeks. Therefore, doctors recommend starting taking it at the planning stage. But there is no definite answer for how long you need to drink the drug. Some prescribe it even in the later months of pregnancy.

Doctors insist that a woman drink vitamin B9 in the first trimester. During this period, it has a maximum value, even a small lack of it can adversely affect the fetus.

Many pregnant women are advised not to stop taking all 9 months. This is especially true for women with pathologies or twins. Here, folacin in the second and even last trimester will not hurt.

Prophylactic doses according to the instructions:

• minimum - 400 mcg (0.4 mg) / day;
• maximum - 800 mcg (0.8 mg) / day.

If the deficiency is pronounced, a dosage of 5 mg is needed. Unauthorized use of such an amount of vitamin is contraindicated, as it can be dangerous.

Can be prescribed for prevention

Acid tablets are available in 100, 400, 1000, 5000 mcg. For the prevention of deficiency, capsules containing 400–1000 mcg are prescribed in the amount of 1 piece daily. The dose of 0.5 mg is therapeutic. Often folacin is prescribed with vitamin E. Substances potentiate each other's action during gestation.

When to stop taking folic acid

The question, until what week they drink folacin, is individual. The term of cancellation is decided by the doctor.

Consultations with a doctor are required

What is the best folic acid to drink during pregnancy

Most often, women are prescribed complexes. These are preparations containing prophylactic doses of vitamins, minerals (E, folacin, ascorbic acid, iodine, iron, zinc, magnesium, calcium). Here are their names and photos:

• Folio;
• Elevit;
• Pregnavit;
• Spirulina;
• Multitabs;
• Centrum.

When taking any of these drugs, the body is replenished with the necessary daily intake of vitamin B9, as well as other trace elements. The advantage of complex remedies is that you do not need to purchase different medicines, since all substances are contained in one tablet.

Folacin monopreparations are often prescribed in conjunction with other agents: Omega-3, Iodomarin, Vitamin E. The patient and the doctor decide which method and regimen to choose.

Rich in vitamin B9

List of folic acid foods for pregnant women

If a woman prefers to use natural sources of folate instead of drugs, you need to know which foods are high in folate. This:

• cereals: rice, buckwheat, oatmeal;
• vegetables: carrots, tomatoes, asparagus, beets;
• walnuts;
• cottage cheese;
• powdered milk;
• beans;
• green pea;
• egg yolk;
• wholemeal bread;
• beef liver.

These foods must be included in the daily diet to prevent folate deficiency.

Folic acid has no analogues

Folic acid analogues

Those who are allergic to folacin are interested in how to replace it in order to ensure the health of the unborn baby? There are no analogues of vitamin B9. The only way out is to give up drugs based on it and get the required daily amount with food.

Allergy to folic acid during pregnancy: symptoms and treatment

Signs:

• widespread rash, accompanied by itching, burning, urticaria;
• Quincke's edema - mucous, skin or fiber, poses a threat to life if it spreads to the larynx;
• anaphylactic shock;
• eczema;
• bronchial asthma.

If a woman notices symptoms, as in the photo, while taking vitamin B9, what should I do? You must stop taking the medicine and consult a doctor. Usually, antihistamines and enterosorbents are prescribed for the treatment of allergies.

Causes allergies in the form of acne and swelling

What is dangerous overdose

An overabundance of the vitamin can lead to:

• increased excitability: a woman becomes irritated, prone to insomnia, frequent mood swings;
• digestive disorders: nausea, a bitter or metallic taste in the mouth, stool disorders appear;
• functional changes in the kidneys;
• allergic reactions: skin rash, itching, urticaria.

In pregnant women, an overdose can be recognized by an excessive increase in fetal weight. There is a risk of obesity, diabetes, asthma, a tendency to allergies in a child.

To achieve an excess of acid is difficult, since its excess is excreted in the urine. Usually a lot of it happens with pathologies of the kidneys, liver.

Adverse reactions are rare, folacin preparations are well tolerated, with the exception of people prone to allergies. For them, the remedy can be dangerous.

Beware of an overdose

Should I take folic acid after a missed pregnancy?

When the fetus dies, it is necessary to follow a balanced diet and take vitamins, including folacin, to ensure a normal next pregnancy. This will help improve the body, restore immunity and hormonal levels.

How much does folic acid cost for pregnant women: price in pharmacies

You can buy vitamins with folate content at the following cost:

• Acid in tablets - 38 rubles;
• Folacin - 130 rubles;
• Folio - 690 rubles;
• Elevit - 580 rubles;
• Spirulina - 1115 rubles;
• Centrum - 514 rubles.

Folic acid throughout pregnancy: reviews

Xenia Sumskaya.

I took Elevit. It contains folk too. The gynecologist canceled at 20 weeks. Said it was good for the baby.

Oksana Surova.

I don't trust doctors. They gave birth before without all these dietary supplements and vitamins. And nothing. And in order for the folk to be in the body, you need to eat buckwheat, eggs and beef liver.

: Borovikova Olga

gynecologist, ultrasound doctor, geneticist