I've started taking a pre-natal vitamin/mineral supplement, but am still really scared that in those first crucial weeks I wasn't getting enough folic acid, especially having done some reading about neural tube defects. Anyone got any advice/experiences to share?
I didn't realize I was pregnant until... - Pregnancy and Par...
I didn't realize I was pregnant until 6-7 weeks. No folic acid supplement in that time. I'm pretty worried that this will harm the baby.
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sarajb
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6 Replies
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Hi there, congratulations. I dont think this will harm your baby. I did not take it in 1995 when I was pregnant with my 1st daughter, she was okay. I took supplements for the last two however. If you look back in history, Folic acid has not always been around or recomended and a lot of babies were born with no defects. A lot of women find out later like you, keep taking and I am sure, all will be fine. Also taking is best recomended but does not guarantee you 100 % otherwise. Healthy eating, minimal exercise an supplements are good. Dont worry you did not know. All the best 
I think it's the same with us all Hunni, we only find out we are pregnant after a missed period and by that time your edging 5/6 weeks and then we start to take folic acid. I wouldn't worry I was the same and I'm sure we. Aren't alone here. Take them from now on if you want to. good luck in your pregnancy x
Related to this - when is the right time to switch from folic acid to pregnancy multi-vitamins? I've seen conflicting things saying take folic acid all the way through the pregnancy, but obviously brands like pregnacare want you to start taking theirs as soon as possible!
• in reply toezbrown
Hi, pregnacare has got the recommended amount of Folic acid in it ( 400 micrograms), so if you are taking it you do not need any more, hope that helps.
I'm in the same position but eat plenty of Marmite and green leafy veg where it occurs naturally. As others have said plenty of people were born without it. Like me!
Thanks for your answers! I appreciate them It's reassuring to hear from you all.
