If you’re a woman in Lagos planning to get pregnant soon, there’s one simple supplement your body shouldn’t go without — folic acid.
At Mascot Healthcare, we regularly see women preparing for pregnancy who are unaware of how vital this nutrient is to their health and their baby’s development. Here’s why starting folic acid early is one of the best decisions you can make for your future pregnancy.
What Is Folic Acid?
Folic acid is the synthetic form of folate (vitamin B9) — a nutrient that helps your body form healthy new cells. It plays a major role in DNA production and red blood cell formation.
When you take folic acid before and during early pregnancy, it supports the growth of your baby’s brain, spinal cord, and overall nervous system.
Why Folic Acid Is So Important Before Pregnancy
One of the most powerful benefits of folic acid is its ability to prevent neural tube defects (NTDs), a serious birth defects affecting the baby’s brain and spine, such as spina bifida and anencephaly.
These defects develop in the first 28 days after conception, often before many women even realize they’re pregnant. That’s why we recommend starting folic acid before conception; not after pregnancy begins.
How Much Folic Acid Do You Need?
For most women trying to conceive:
- Take 4mg) of folic acid daily.
- Start at least one month before conception and continue through the first trimester.
If you have diabetes, obesity, epilepsy, or a family history of birth defects, your doctor may recommend a higher dose.
Natural Sources of Folate
While supplements are the best way to ensure the right dose, you can also boost your folate intake through foods like:
- Leafy greens (ugu, spinach)
- Beans
- Avocado
- Orange
However, cooking and processing can destroy some folate, so supplements remain essential when planning pregnancy.
Preconception Care in Lagos
At Mascot Healthcare, we offer preconception and women’s health consultations for those planning pregnancy. Our medical team can:
- Recommend the right folic acid dose for you
- Check your overall reproductive health
- Guide you through lifestyle and nutrition choices for a healthy start
📍 Visit us: 52 Sholanke Street, Akoka, Lagos
📲 Book an appointment: Chat with us on WhatsApp
💡 Takeaway
Starting folic acid early is one of the simplest and most effective steps you can take for a healthy pregnancy and baby.
If you live in Akoka, Yaba, Bariga, Shomolu, or anywhere in Lagos, Mascot Healthcare is here to support you every step of the way — from pre-pregnancy to antenatal checkup.