Did you take your Folic Acid today?

Tell every woman you know between the ages of 15-44 to take folic acid every day.  Since Spina Bifida and Anencephaly develops in the first 28 days of a pregnancy, Folic Acid must be taken prior to conception in order for it to be effective.  If a woman takes the recommended daily allowance of 400mcg, she can reduce her risk by up to 70%. Consider the following:

• All women capable of becoming pregnant are at risk of having a Spina Bifida pregnancy
• Women should take folic acid whether they're trying to get pregnant or not - half of all pregnancies in the United States are unplanned 
• Spina Bifida occurs before most women know they are pregnant
• Spina Bifida and Anencephaly are the most common preventable birth defects

Remember: if you, your child or your sibling are affected by Spina Bifida you should be taking a higher dose (4mg) of folic acid to prevent a recurrence!

We work hard to educate the communities we serve about Spina Bifida and Folic Acid by participating in health fairs and bridal fairs throughout the year.  We want to educate as many people as possible and we want you to do the same.  Please spread the word!