Folic acid, a B vitamin, helps prevent birth defects of the brain and spinal cord when taken very early in pregnancy. It is available in most multivitamins, as a folic acid-only supplement and in some foods. The Importance of Folic Acid for Proper Prenatal Care Video. Department of Health and Human Services. National Institutes of Health. Centers for Disease Control. Division of Birth Defects, Child Development, and Disability and Health. Folic Acid Public Service Announcements. This Video: Before You Know It (English, 30s). For women who are thinking about becoming pregnant soon. Perfect for presentations about folic acid and prevention of neural tube defects. Can be used also in waiting rooms. Producer: National Institutes of Health. hhs.gov. Folic acid is used to make the extra blood your body needs during pregnancy. All women of childbearing age should consume 400 micrograms of folic acid a day. When should I start taking folic acid? You should start taking folic acid prior to...