Higher-dose folic acid

Some women have a higher chance of having a pregnancy affected by a neural tube defect and are advised to take a higher dose of 5 milligrams (mg) of folic acid each day until they're 12 weeks pregnant.

You may have a higher chance if:

• you or the baby's biological father have a neural tube defect

• you or the baby's biological father have a family history of neural tube defects

• you have had a previous pregnancy affected by a neural tube defect

• you have diabetes

• you take anti-epilepsy medicine

• you take anti-retroviral medicine for HIV

If any of this applies to you, talk to a GP. They can prescribe a higher dose of folic acid.

A GP or midwife may also recommend additional screening tests during your pregnancy.