Folic acid and iron — why they matter
How these two simple supplements prevent serious complications for you and your baby.
Folic acid protects your baby's spine and brain as they form, which happens in the very first weeks, often before you know you are pregnant. That is why it is offered at your first visit and taken every day.
Iron builds the extra blood your body makes during pregnancy. Without enough, you become anaemic: tired, breathless, dizzy, and at higher risk of heavy bleeding after delivery.
Take iron with water or fruit juice rather than tea or coffee, which block absorption. It can make stools dark and sometimes causes constipation, and that is not a reason to stop.
Key points to remember
- 1Folic acid works earliest in pregnancy, so start it now.
- 2Iron prevents anaemia and protects you at delivery.
- 3Avoid tea and coffee at the same time as your iron tablet.
When to get help
Tell your clinic if you feel breathless walking short distances, your palms and eyelids look pale, or you feel faint. These are signs of anaemia that need treating.
Ask privately