1.2 Other factors affecting pre-conception health for women

What is another word for folic acid?

Vitamin folate or vitamin B9

What does folic acid help the body do?

Make healthy red blood cells

What group of vitamins is folic acid a part of?

Group B vitamins

Explain why folic acid is recommended as a supplement.

It cannot be stored in the body very well.

How long should a woman take folic acid for before she concieves?

Every day for 2-3 months.

What does folic acid help with in pregnancy?

The formation of the neural tube in babies (early development of the central nervous system)

What happens if there is not enough folate in the mother’s system?

The baby is more likely to have birth defects e.g open spina bifida or anecephaly.

Why would a baby be more at risk of neural tube defects?

If the mother:

• has diabetes or epilepsy

• has a family history of neural defects

• drinks alcohol heavily

What could the flu lead to in pregnancy?

Stillbirths, death or complications

What can whooping cough lead to in pregnancy?

Pneumonia and brain damage.

What can rubella cause in pregnancy?

Health problems, deafness, blindness, or heart problems

Is the COVID-19 vaccine safe for pregnant/breastfeeding women?

Yes.

Can an MMR or rubella vaccine be given during pregnancy?

No, it is not recommended for MMR and they cannot have a rubella vaccine.

Can a pregnant woman get the flu vaccine or COVID-19 vaccine?

Yes.

Can a pregnant woman get a whooping cough vaccine?

Yes, but only between week 16 and 23.