Try to take 400 micrograms (mcg) of folic acid daily. Folic acid is important because it helps prevent serious birth defects in the baby's brain and spine. If you are planning or may become pregnant, you should take 400 micrograms (mcg) of folic acid daily to ensure proper growth and growth of your baby. In addition to consuming foods containing folic acid from a variety of diets, you can get folic acid from . Take vitamins, including folic acid. Most vitamins sold in the United States contain the recommended amount of folic acid required (400 mcg). Vitamins are available at most local pharmacies, grocery stores, or discount stores. Check the label on the bottle to make sure it contains 100% of the daily value of folic acid, 400 mcg. Eat fortified foods; Folic acid is found in some breads, breakfast cereals and cornmeal. Be sure to check the nutrition label and look for products that say "100%" next to folic acid. Get a combination of both. Eat vitamins, including folic acid, and eat fortified foods. Schedule a doctor's visit before discontinuing or starting your medication. Many women need to take medicines during pregnancy to stay healthy. If you are planning to become pregnant, discuss your current medication with your health care provider. B. Doctor or pharmacist. Creating a treatment plan for your pre-pregnancy health will help you and your growing baby stay healthy. COVID19: Doctor's consultation and dosing Check for all vaccinations, including influenza vaccinations. Vaccination protects you and your growing baby from serious illness. To protect you and your baby, get a flu shot and a whooping cough (also known as Tdap) every year during pregnancy. Influenza: You can be vaccinated against influenza before or during pregnancy. Whooping cough: You can get a whooping cough vaccine in the last 3 months of pregnancy. COVID19: Vaccine Improves health by avoiding harmful substances during pregnancy. Alcohol: The safe amount of alcohol you consume during or when you are about to become pregnant is unknown. Alcohol can cause problems for pregnant and developing babies, so it is important to stop drinking when trying to get pregnant or during pregnancy. Tobacco: Smoking causes cancer, heart disease and other major health problems. Smoking during pregnancy can harm a developing baby and can also cause certain birth defects. Quitting smoking will make you feel better and provide a healthier environment for your baby. Other medications: Taking certain medications during pregnancy can cause health problems for women and developing babies. Health providers can assist with counseling, treatment, and other support services.