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Dr. Marjorie Greenfield
Specializing in pregnancy and birth.
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Folate Before Conceiving
QUESTION
Dear Dr. Greenfield,
How much in advance does one need to start taking folic acid supplements before trying to get pregnant? What is the appropriate dose?

— Diana in N. Haven, CT

ANSWER
September 28, 2000
Dear Diana,
For most women, 400 micrograms (0.4 mg) of folic acid has been shown to vastly decrease the incidence of certain birth defects. Most of the studies had women on folic acid about a month before they got pregnant. However, in general it is believed that it is most important to be on it early in your pregnancy and that you don't really need to get a "running start."

— by Marjorie Greenfield, M.D.

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