Pre-Conception Management

Question 1

What dose of folic acid recommended for all women, and how long does it need to be taken for?

Answer 1

400micrograms
When trying to conceive up until the 12th week of pregnancy

Question 2

What dose of folic acid is recommended for women at risk of having a baby with a neural tube defect, and what are the risk factors for this?

Answer 2

5mg
Either partner has an NTD, they have had a previous pregnancy affected by an NTD, or they have a family history of an NTD.
The woman is taking anti–epileptic medication.
The woman has diabetes mellitus, sickle cell anaemia, or thalassaemia.
The woman is obese (defined as a body mass index [BMI] of 30 kg/m2or more).

Question 3

What other supplement may be required (can’t find it in guidelines but places online say it’s recommended)?

Answer 3

Vitamin D