Antenatal & maternal medicineFree in the app
Folic acid & supplements
Who needs 5 mg folic acid.
Source: NICE NG247 (2025)Folic acid
| 400 micrograms | All women, 3 months before conception to 12 weeks. |
|---|---|
| 5 mg | Previous NTD or family history (either partner), diabetes, sickle cell / thalassaemia (whole pregnancy), antiepileptics or other anti-folate drugs. |
NG247 (2025): BMI alone no longer an indication for 5 mg — some local guidance still uses BMI ≥30.
Also
- Vitamin D 10 micrograms daily (all year if darker skin / little sun)
- Avoid vitamin A (retinol) and liver / cod liver oil
A summary for trained clinicians. Always check the full guideline, the patient in front of you and your hospital's protocol. Spotted an error? Tell us.