B12 Defficiency

[marie14]

Hi everyone,
I'm doing the stupid thing of looking all over the internet and worrying myself!

Got a call from the docs today to say that i've got a severe b12 defficiency and need injections. This can stop the body aabsorbing folic acid. Since I was still having periods I didn't even know I was pregnant until 16 weeks, and so didn't take folic acid at all.
Does the deficiency put me at a higher risk of the baby having neural tube defects?

Being a vegan and as a student my diet was pretty lacking!
(20 weeks, first baby, 20 years old)

have they checked if your deficiency is down to diet or do you have a problem with absorption?

I too have vitamin B12 deficiency and have injections every 12 weeks. Please try not to worry and do voice any concerns with your GP. My consultant monitored my levels throughout my pregnancy, so make sure your midwife/ consultant is aware and mention it at every appointment you go to. I was under consultant care for my pregnancy, so it's worth asking if you should be under consultant care (rather than midwife) care due to the deficiency. I took the folic acid and pregnacare viatmins until I gave birth. (Just for peace of mind really) I don't know whether it puts you at higher risk of having a baby born with neural tube defects.
My baby was born very healthy.
Congratulations on your pregnancy!

I also have b12 deficiency and have been having the injections since about 5months before i conceived. I understand tht you will be worried but if you have not felt the deficiency i would be hopeful that perhaps it wont have had an effect on the baby either. I have no medical reason for this just wild guess! I was only borderline deficient and had all the side effects . You can also request the blood test for spina bifida etc if it will help to put your mind at rest - also your 20week scan will be looking to detect any abnormalities.

marmite is your friend

I'm also a vegan btw

Also agree that mention it at your 20 week scan and they should pay extra attention to detail.

good luck

I'm b12 deficient, and I have three v healthy babies. Have you had your injections yet? They are amazing and I always feel fabulous after I've had mine, I actually look forward to them!