Why is folic acid important during pregnancy?

Folic acid is essential during pregnancy primarily because it significantly reduces the risk of neural tube defects, which are serious congenital malformations affecting the brain and spinal cord. Neural tube defects occur in the early stages of fetal development, often before a woman even knows she is pregnant. Adequate levels of folic acid before conception and during the first trimester are crucial for proper neural tube formation.

Timely intake of folic acid can lead to a substantial decrease in the incidence of these defects, thus leading to healthier pregnancy outcomes. Health organizations recommend that women who are planning to become pregnant begin taking folic acid supplements at least one month before conception and continue through the first trimester to ensure optimal levels are present during this critical time of fetal development.