Folic Acid Supplementation on Fetal Growth at Different Gestational Ages
Hannah Sugirthabai Rajila Rajendran1, Thotakura Balaji1, Jyothi Ashok Kumar2, Santhosh Kumar3 and Vaithianathan Gnanasundaram1

1Department of Anatomy, Chettinad Hospital and research Institute, Chettinad Academy of Research and Education, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India

2Department of Anatomy, Basaveshwara Medical College, Chitradurga, Karnataka, India

3CRRI, Chettinad Hospital and research Institute, Chettinad Academy of Research and Education, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India

Corresponding Author E-mail: balajianat@gmail.com

Abstract: Introduction: Folate, Vitamin B9, is found naturally in our day to day foods. It is vital for synthesis of DNA and normal cell division in humans. Studies have revealed constantly that maternal folic acid[FA] intake prior to and in early conception decreases neural tube defects. Aim: The aim of the current study is to evaluate the relationship between FA intake by the mother during conception and fetal growth at different gestational ages and also if, periconceptional and preconceptional FA intake has a positive effect on  fetal growth, hence reducing the risk of low birth weight babies or small for gestational age (SGA) babies. Materials and methods: 180 pregnant women were classified based on their period of FA intake as preconception, periconception FA intake and nil FA intake. Standard fetal biometric parameters were measured using ultrasonogram during the 1st , 2nd and 3rd  trimester of their pregnancy. Results: Preconception FA intake had a positive effect on fetal growth as compared to those who abstained from FA supplementation. Intake during preconception and peri-conception i.e. immediately after confirmation of pregnancy was found to have a reduced risk of low fetal weight as against those who did not consume FA. Fetal biometry showed significant difference between preconception and periconception groups. Conclusion: In conclusion, preconceptional and periconceptional FA supplementation of 0.4-0.5 mg/day was positively affecting fetal growth and caused an optimal birth weight by decreasing the incidence of low birth weight.

Keywords: FA; Pregnancy; Supplementation; Weight for Gestational Age

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