When is it recommended for a pregnant woman to start taking folic acid?

Starting folic acid supplementation at least one month before conception and continuing through the first trimester is widely recommended because it plays a crucial role in fetal development. Adequate levels of folic acid before and during early pregnancy significantly reduce the risk of neural tube defects and other congenital disabilities. This timing is particularly important, as neural tube formation occurs in the very early weeks of pregnancy, often before a woman even knows she is pregnant.

Taking folic acid consistently for at least three months prior to conception allows for the building of sufficient levels in the body, which can positively influence the development of the embryo. The first three months of pregnancy are a critical period for the development of the baby's nervous system, making this supplementation essential during this timeframe.