Folic Acid: Small Pill, Big Protection for Your Baby
The folic acid is the synthetic version of the vitamin folate, also known as vitamin B9. It was seen in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology. Folic acid concentrations in maternal plasma were evaluated during the first antenatal appointment using an automated chemiluminescence-based method, Vitamin B12 levels were also assessed to identify any coexisting deficiencies. Mostly Pregnancy outcomes evaluated included first and second-trimester miscarriages, maternal anaemia, gestational hypertension, pre-eclampsia, gestational diabetes mellitus, hypothyroidism, placental abruption, and intrauterine foetal growth restriction (FGR). Mostly outcomes such as the gestational age at time of delivery, birth weight, and Data on the neural tube defects and intrauterine foetal demise were also assessed. The certain statistical analysis can perform to explore the relationship between folic acid levels and these pregnancy outcomes if necessary. Folic acid plays an important role in pregnancy period as well as treat or prevent the type of folate deficiency anaemia. Folic acid plays a key role in early foetal development, particularly in the formation of the neural tube, which later becomes the brain, skull and spinal cord. The Adequate consumption helps to prevent serious birth defects such as-SPINA BIFIDA. It supports fundamental biological processes such as DNA replication and cell division. When taken with vitamins B6 and B12, folic acid may also contribute to cardiovascular health by regulating homocysteine levels. Prevents megaloblastic anaemia and also aids in detoxification & metabolism. Conclusion: The study suggests a significant association between low maternal folic acid levels and a higher likelihood of adverse pregnancy outcomes, including complications such as anaemia, miscarriage and FGR (foetal growth restriction) and preterm birth. Therefore, the ensuring adequate folic acid intake in accordance with nutritional guidelines is crucial to reduce these risks and improve pregnancy outcomes.
Authors
- N. Jayasree
- Vijayalakshmi Cholavaram
- O. Susmitha
- SK. Davood
- K. Ruchitha
Publication Details
- Journal
- International Journal of Research in Pharmacy and Allied Science
- Published
- 2025-01-01
- DOI
- https://doi.org/10.71431/ijrpas.2025.4902
- Primary Topic
- Folate and B Vitamins Research
- Type
- article
- Field-Weighted Citation Impact
- 0.00