Folic Acid Past 1st Tri?

OhioBobcat

I've tried to google it and since it's Sunday I can't call my midwife...so this could be deemed a silly question.

I know it is recommended to take folic acid through the 12th week of pregnancy...but is there anything positive or detremental about taking it into the 2nd tri?

I've carried on (in my 16th week now), but mainly in case I was missing enough folic acid in my regular diet.

fnkeefresh

You're supposed to take it all the way thru pregnancy & continue if you're BFing.

OhioBobcat

fnkeefresh:

You're supposed to take it all the way thru pregnancy & continue if you're BFing.

 

REALLY?

Hmm...I honestly thought I was supposed to stop after 12 weeks. If that is the case, I'm glad I didn't. Thanks.

LoveEeyore

fnkeefresh:

You're supposed to take it all the way thru pregnancy & continue if you're BFing.

Yup, this.  I believe (but please check) that it is most important in the first tri b/c that is when neural tube defects are most likely to occur and folic acid helps that. 

OhioBobcat

I will check into it with my midwife, but it makes me feel a bit better that it at least isn't hurting anything at the moment that I have just continued as I was.

dansozzi

I won't hurt for you to keep taking it but your right it is most important thru your 1st trimester. ?It helps prevent spinal bifida and once the spinal cord is fully developed and inclosed there is nothing else folic acid will do. ?

sdc06

I agree...most important for 1st tri but it is recommended to continue taking your PNV throughout your pregnancy and while BF. I have been on them for over 3 years straight. I was taking them while I was TTC DS for 8 months, then during his pregnancy, I nursed him for 1 year and while I was nursing got pregnant again so I am still on them. It won't hurt anything to continue

purpletulip

It's recommended to take a prenatal vitamin before, during, and after pregnancy, and they usually contain 800 mg of folic acid. So if you take those, you're getting your folic acid already. 

I think it's especially important during the first tri, but def beneficial later on

BeeLove

I have been taking a TON of FC since 1st tri and still continue to do so.  Brain and spinal development last well past 1st tri...it's important to keep taking it.

A S-ski

I took a PNV and an additional folic acid supplement while TTC and through 1st tri.  After first tri I stopped taking the additional folic acid but still take the PNV which has some folic acid in it.

CJ2008

A close friend who had the same OB I now do had prescribed her only folic acid and iron throughout her entire pregnancy b/c she didn't tolerate the prenatal vitamins. I have read that it is good the entire time because it helps to prevent preterm labor as well as the NT defects.