Folic acid at 10+ weeks

[Kescilly]

I need to have some tests run to check my folate levels because of a condition I have. And I've been told to start taking a higher dosage of folic acid, which I am. But I'm 10+2 and wondering if there's any point now. Doesn't it take months to build up? My understanding is that it's only important until twelve weeks and I was wondering if two weeks of a higher dose will even have an effect.

I haven't had the test yet so by the time the results come back, I will probably be closer to 11 weeks.

Folic acid is water soluble so, its used up and any extra is disposed of in the urine. So it certainly won't hurt to take the higher does. There are some conditions that are determined in the first few weeks of pregnancy which it won't make a difference to now, but folic acid is important for development throughout pregnancy so if you are usually low, a supplement sounds like a good idea.

Have you considered taking methylated folic acid? It’s in a form which is easier for your body to absorb/takes less processing, so it might help to increase your levels more quickly...

No harm in taking it longer. I'm still taking mine at 24 weeks.

Thanks everyone! I’ve never heard of methylated folate so I’ll look into that as well. I don’t mind taking folic acid, I was just confused about the concern and advice now, so late into my first trimester.

I was advised to stop taking folic acid once i was in 2nd trimester. It prevents neural tube defects and the neural tube should be closed by then. My midwife said it wasn't necessary to take and also mentioned that there is loose evidence of a link between folic acid and tongue tie.

I switched to folate instead recently (I'm 21 weeks) but now I think I've wasted my money haha, I will keep on with vitamin D though

Mine is within the pregnacare vitamins which you can take even when breastfeeding if that helps