Spina Bifida in Dh's family - how worried should I be?

We are not TTC yet, but we will be this summer ( ). I went for my annual and the fact that DH had a cousin with Spina Bifida came up.

She was somewhat concerned, but not overly. Even though I'm not actively TTC, she prescribed Citracal prenatal vitamins.

My problem is that from what I've read, women with a family history should take 4000mg of folic acid a day. Citracal only has 1000mg.

Should I call her and discuss? Should I start taking a folic acid supplement? Should I stop being so neurotic??

TIA!

Re: Spina Bifida in Dh's family - how worried should I be?

Its in my family too and I was very concerned. Take extra folic acid, it helps prevent SB. Also there are certain tests that can be done to determine how much of a chance you have of having a SB baby. Once you get PG there are even more tests this will do early in your PG to make sure the baby is OK.

Re: Spina Bifida in Dh's family - how worried should I be?

Thanks for the info,

Do you think I need to take the Citracal AND extra folic acid now, or should I wait until summer (I'm a teacher and we'll be TTC starting this June)?

TIA!

Re: Spina Bifida in Dh's family - how worried should I be?

YOu can probably wait til closer when you're going to TTC to really start loading up on folic acid. But it is important, once you are TC to keep up with the folic acid. Good luck and baby dust!

Re: Spina Bifida in Dh's family - how worried should I be?

Thank you so much!

Re: Spina Bifida in Dh's family - how worried should I be?

I also read that Folic acid does not build up in your body so its important you take it every day