50% of women are not taking Folic Acid at the time of conception.

In early pregnancy, the neural tube which goes on to form the brain and spinal cord fuses and closes. Maternal intake of Folic Acid reduces the risk of neural tube defects.

I meet women who are trying to conceive who aren’t taking Folic Acid; they’re taking supplements like Vitamin C or evening primrose oil; they’re missing out on a key and potentially life saving supplement.

Up to 50% of pregnancies in Ireland are not planned so I recommend all women, whether trying to conceive or not, to take Folic Acid.