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Folic acid deficiency and preterm labor

Folic acid deficiency has not been linked with preterm labor or delivery.

"Megaloblastic" anemia

This is a descriptive term used for the type of anemia brought about by folic acid deficiency. The term "megaloblastic" is purely descriptive. It reflects the fact that in this type of anemia, the blood-cells are larger than normal ("mega").

It is also important to stress that folic acid deficiency is not the only cause of megaloblastic anemia. Deficiency of vitamin B12 will also cause this type of anemia.

Folic acid deficiency and labor

If a woman gets to term and into labor still having folic acid deficiency anemia, this should be regarded as some kind of failure of management. It is such an easy problem to correct.

No specific measures are required or called for in a case of folic acid deficiency anemia in labor. The usual precautions for anemia (regardless of type) will, of course, be taken. These may include cross-matching blood to have it ready in case transfusion becomes necessary, especially post-delivery.

Breast feeding and folic acid requirements

Breast-feeding does increase folic acid requirements to some degree. A breast-fed baby will be completely dependent on the milk for his or her folic acid requirements, among other things. It follows, therefore, that for a mother who was noted to be folic acid-deficient prenatally, supplements will be advisable.

For the majority, however, this is not necessary as long as she is getting the right diet. Properly prepared, balanced diet supplies more than adequate folic acid, even for a breast-feeding mother.

Cleft lip and palate are some of the potential complications of maternal Folic acid deficiency during pregnancy