Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 5

Vitamin B9, also known as folic acid or folate, is scientifically validated as an essential supplement during pregnancy. Extensive research demonstrates that adequate folic acid intake before conception and during early pregnancy significantly reduces the risk of neural tube defects (NTDs) in the developing fetus, including spina bifida and anencephaly. The neural tube closes within the first 28 days after conception, often before a woman knows she is pregnant, which is why supplementation is recommended for all women of childbearing age who may become pregnant.

Folic acid is vital for DNA synthesis, cell division, and proper fetal growth. Randomized controlled trials and large-scale observational studies have consistently shown that daily supplementation with 400 to 800 micrograms of folic acid reduces the incidence of NTDs. As a result, health authorities such as the World Health Organization (WHO), the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) universally recommend folic acid supplementation for women planning pregnancy and throughout the first trimester.

Beyond NTD prevention, emerging evidence suggests folic acid may also lower the risk of other birth defects, preterm birth, and low birth weight, but the strongest and most conclusive evidence is for neural tube defect prevention. Thus, the use of vitamin B9 (folic acid) in pregnancy is strongly supported by scientific evidence and is a standard of care in prenatal health.

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