Maternal Health

Folic Acid and Pregnancy

Nexus Health Editorial·5 min read

Pharmacist reviewer: Pending — Kofikrom Pharmacy

Introduction

Folic acid is one of the most important supplements in pregnancy — it dramatically reduces the risk of neural tube defects like spina bifida in your baby. Ghana's Ministry of Health recommends it for every woman planning pregnancy and through the first trimester.

This short guide covers the essentials. A more detailed version is in editorial review. For personal medical questions, talk to a pharmacist on WhatsApp.

What we cover

Why folic acid matters — the neural tube forms in the first 28 days, often before a woman knows she is pregnant

When to start — ideally 1–3 months before trying to conceive

Typical dose — 400 micrograms daily for most women; higher doses (up to 5 mg) for women with diabetes, previous affected pregnancy, or on certain anti-epileptic medicines

Food sources in Ghana — kontomire (cocoyam leaves), beans, groundnuts, fortified flour

Why supplementation is still essential even with a good diet

Talk to your pharmacist if

You have a previous pregnancy affected by neural tube defect, you have diabetes, or you take anti-epileptic medication — you may need a higher dose on prescription.

Pharmacist Disclaimer

This article is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. The information provided should not be used to diagnose or treat any health condition. Always consult a qualified pharmacist or healthcare professional before starting, stopping, or changing any medication.

Related medicines

Folic Acid

Folic Acid 5mg

from Kofikrom Pharmacy

GH₵ 8.50

Have questions about this topic?

Talk to a Pharmacist