Correct timing of folic acid supplementation during pregnancy

It is generally acknowledged that folic acid should be taken in pregnancy to prevent birth defects such as neural tube defects (NTDs). However, most women take folic acid as a supplement in the later stages of pregnancy, once they have received guidance from health practitioners. Unfortunately, this is typically after the critical period of neural tube closure, which occurs within the first 28 days after conception. Further public health campaigns are needed to strengthen women's understanding of ‘why’ folic acid is needed before conception and in the early stages of pregnancy. Equally, new ways to communicate this important information at appropriate time periods are also required.