What is a common recommendation for clients considering pregnancy regarding folic acid?

Starting folic acid supplementation one month before attempting to conceive is a widely recommended guideline for women planning pregnancy. Folic acid is crucial for the prevention of neural tube defects and other developmental issues in the fetus, particularly during the early weeks of gestation when the spinal cord and brain are forming—often before a woman even knows she’s pregnant.

Taking folic acid prior to conception allows for adequate levels to be achieved in the body to support early fetal development. This proactive approach is particularly important because neural tube defects can occur very early in pregnancy, often before a woman has confirmed her pregnancy.

The recommendation to take it only during pregnancy does not account for this critical time frame, and discontinuing folic acid upon experiencing nausea may lead to insufficient levels when they are most needed. Lastly, while healthcare provider advice is crucial in pregnancy-related health, the consensus on folic acid supplementation is strong enough that many guidelines suggest it for all women of childbearing age, independent of specific medical advice.