Most people are advised to take 400 micrograms of folic acid each day.
Some people may need to take more folic acid, for example, if you:
- (or the baby’s other parent) have had spina bifida;
- had a previous baby with spina bifida;
- (or the baby’s other parent) have a family history of neural tube defects;
- have diabetes;
- have a high Body Mass Index (BMI) that is over 30;
- are taking medication for epilepsy;
- are taking anti-retroviral medication for HIV.
Your GP can prescribe you a higher dose if you need it and are planning a pregnancy, or are in the early stages of pregnancy.