Folic acid supplementation before and throughout pregnancy can help lower the incidence of congenital abnormalities in babies, including neural tube defects and heart disorders. The study looked at the impact of different folic acid supplementation durations and timings on the risk of congenital malformations in over 17,000 pregnant women. Those who took the required folic acid intake had a decreased incidence of congenital abnormalities compared to those who did not. The results revealed that commencing folic acid supplementation 1.5 months before conception and continuing for 4 months of pregnancy was the best regimen for lowering the risk of congenital abnormalities, particularly heart problems. Starting folic acid supplementation earlier—approximately 2 to 3 months before pregnancy—and keeping it up for 4 to 5 months.

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