A cleft palate occurs whenever the soft and sometimes hard palates in the roof of the mouth do not close properly. As a baby grows and develops in the womb, these structures may not form properly and may also extend to the lip causing both a cleft lip and palate. This condition affects 6,800 babies in the United States every year. Mother's who take folic acid before and during pregnancy may be able to help prevent this condition and other birth defects from occurring.
Step 1
Purchase a multivitamin or prenatal vitamin containing a minimum 400 mcg of folic acid if you are in your child-bearing years. It is important to start taking folic acid before you become pregnant. Many women do not discover their pregnancy until several weeks in. Many of the body systems have already begun to form by then.
Step 2
Take a prenatal vitamin containing at least 400 mcg of folic acid everyday during your pregnancy. The March of Dimes notes that women who take folic acid both before and during pregnancy have a lower risk of giving birth to a baby with a cleft palate.
Step 3
Sit your vitamins in a place where you will remember to take them every single day. Folic acid can also help prevent other birth defects such as those related to the brain and spinal cord. It is important to not forget to take your vitamins every day. You can also eat foods that contain folic acid naturally such as green leafy vegetables. It is still a good idea to take a daily prenatal vitamin to ensure you receive at least 400 mcg of folic acid unless your doctor recommends otherwise.
Tips and Warnings
- Consult your doctor if you have any questions about your vitamins or if they cause nausea or constipation. Your doctor may be able to recommend another vitamin or perhaps a single folic acid supplement that may not disturb your digestive system.
Things You'll Need
- Prenatal or multivitamin containing folic acid
Member Comments