Every day in England and Wales at least two babies are born with neural tube defects such as spina bifida. In this condition one or more bones in the back do not form properly and it is possible that the spinal cord an brain may also be damaged or improperly formed. As a result the child may have problems such as difficulty walking or controlling their bladder when older. All pregnant mothers are at risk, whether young or old, whether they have had healthy babies or not in the past.

Folic acid is a type of vitamin, it can be obtained directly from the chemist, health food shops and supermarkets (approximately £1 for a month's supply) as well as on prescription. Taking Folic acid from the time a woman starts trying to get pregnant until the pregnancy is 12 weeks advanced greatly reduces the chance that the baby will be born with a neural tube defect. The neural tube develops into the brain and spinal cord and develops quickly in the tiny embryo; 26 days after conception (approximately 2 weeks after a missed period) important changes that might lead to spina bifida have already occurred. It is sometimes difficult to know when you conceive and so it would be wise to take folic acid supplements from the time you discontinue contraception. This will help protect the baby during the vital early weeks of pregnancy (even before you know you are pregnant) when most major organs are forming.

All women who are planning a pregnancy should take 400 micrograms (0.4 milligrams) folic acid a day. They should also eat more folate rich foods. Useful sources of folate/folic acid are shown below (values on micrograms of folate per typical serving). However, bear in mind that cooking may destroy some of the folic acid in food and it is difficult to take enough on a daily basis by diet alone; take a folic acid table in addition to be sure you are receiving enough each day! There is no evidence that taking excess folic acid is dangerous-the body disposes of any it does not use.

Overcooking destroys folic acid.

Check on breakfast packet labels for the amount of folic acid per serving as it differs widely from cereal to cereal (ignore the recommended daily amount which if for people who are not pregnant, look for the total amount). Some breads are specially fortified, so check the supermarket shelves and look at the labels.

Although liver is a rich source of folic acid, pregnant women and those intending to become pregnant are advised not to eat liver or liver products, because its level of vitamin A may be high and the consumption of excess vitamin a carries a risk of adverse effects for the unborn child.