Folic acid, which the NHS recommends taking at least three months before trying for a baby and 12 weeks after conception, is pivotal for healthy foetal development.

That’s partly why the government introduced new legislation that will mean all non-wholemeal flour has to be fortified with folic acid from the end of 2026.

The vitamin is “essential for DNA synthesis, repair, and cell division, making it critical during periods of rapid cell growth, such as in foetal development,” Our CEO Marija Skujina mentions in this article published by HuffPost UK where Plan Your Baby has been featured.

Before pregnancy, it can help to support your egg health and ensure healthy cell division; once you’re pregnant, it helps to properly close something called the neural tube, which becomes the baby’s brain and spinal cord.

“This legislation is critical because it directly addresses neural tube defects (NTDs), such as spina bifida and anencephaly, which occur in the early stages of pregnancy,” Skujina comments.

“These conditions can severely affect a child’s physical and mental health, leading to issues like paralysis and cognitive impairment.”

We highlighted how vital folic acid is for those trying to conceive, particularly its role in supporting early foetal development. We also stressed the importance of preconception care and how small dietary changes can have a big impact on fertility outcomes.

At Plan Your Baby, we’re committed to spreading awareness about fertility health and offering expert guidance tailored to individual journeys. This feature underscores our mission to empower patients with the knowledge and tools they need to make informed decisions.