Folacid Use In Pregnancy & Lactation

Teratogenic Effects: Pregnancy Category A.
Folic Acid is usually indicated in the treatment of megaloblastic anemias of pregnancy. Folic Acid requirements are markedly increased during pregnancy, and deficiency will result in fetal damage.
Studies in pregnant women have not shown that Folic Acid increases the risk of fetal abnormalities if administered during pregnancy. If the drug is used during pregnancy, the possibility of fetal harm appears remote. Because studies cannot rule out the possibility of harm, however, Folic Acid should be used during pregnancy only if clearly needed.
Folic Acid is excreted in the milk of lactating mothers. During lactation, Folic Acid requirements are markedly increased; however, amounts present in human milk are adequate to fulfill infant requirements, although supplementation may be needed in low birth-weight infants, in those who are breast-fed by mothers with folic deficiency (50 mcg daily), or in those with infections or prolonged diarrhea.