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Pregnancy

Talk about every stage of pregnancy, from early symptoms to preparing for birth.

B12 deficiency before conception

2 replies

SophiaTyne · 10/03/2025 06:33

I found out that I had a vitamin b12 deficiency just before falling pregnant (108ng/L) my ferritin level as well is 11.3mg/ml. I’m not anaemic. I’ve been taking oral supplements for two weeks now.

Some background; i initially fell pregnant in August, which ended in October after discovering a cystic hygroma during the 12 week scan. Obviously this has been a very difficult and traumatic time.

I’ve been absolutely desperately trying to fall pregnant again with no success. My WCC has been low and that’s why they tested my iron and b12. When these came back low, I decided to stop TTC as I’d read the complications of NTD on NHS website.

Of course, the month where we only had sex once (before I found out about low b12) we conceived. I should only be able two weeks pregnant. Sometimes I feel calm because I know my folate levels are good (14.7ng/ml) and I’ve been taking supplements for months. But sometimes I feel absolutely convinced that that the neural tube has been impacted by the low b12. I know it’s the first four weeks that are critical.

I want to get IM injections as soon as I can, going to call the GP this morning.

I eat a really balanced diet, and consciously trying to increase my b12 and folate intake.

I’d really love to hear stories from people who have had b12 deficiencies before and during pregnancy, who weren’t having IM injections, and how their journeys were. Would also love to hear from health professionals with some knowledge on the subject.

OP posts:
Are your children’s vaccines up to date?
Exc · 08/06/2025 21:06

Hey, how are you getting on with your pregnancy now?

mines a similar story to you. I’ll just give the headlines. 12w scan baby had 9.1mm cystic hygroma. Ended in TFMR. I also (about a year before conceiving) did have low B12 reading but was fine ever since. I totally know how you feel as I am convinced I have a lymphatic disorder, and this was passed onto my baby. No scientific proof, just a really strong hunch. I’m currently fighting to see a specialist as me and my wife went through fertility treatment to get pregnant so want to know before we try again.

hoping all is ok with you and your baby now?

Brownowl83 · 08/06/2025 21:16

Have you been diagnosed with pernaicious anaemia? Even with a balanced diet you cant absorb B12 through food and the stomach so will need loading doses via injection then one injection every 12 weeks.

I have had this for 10+ years but this was never mentioned when i went through ivf, they were more concerned about my underactive thyroid being under control. But having 2+autoimmune conditions put my chances at the bottom.

I recommend B12 mouth sprays too as these will get the dose straight into your blood stream. You cant have too much B12, like Vitamin C your body will just get rid of it 👍🏻

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