Evidence supporting the use of: Vitamin B9 (folic acid)
For the health condition: Miscarriage (prevention)
Synopsis
Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2
Vitamin B9 (folic acid) is primarily supported by scientific evidence for its role in preventing neural tube defects in early pregnancy, but its direct role in preventing miscarriage is less clear. Several observational studies have examined the relationship between folic acid supplementation and miscarriage risk, with mixed results. Some studies suggest that folic acid supplementation before and during early pregnancy may slightly reduce the risk of miscarriage, possibly by supporting healthy DNA synthesis and cell division, and reducing homocysteine levels (which, when elevated, have been associated with adverse pregnancy outcomes). However, large randomized controlled trials such as those conducted for neural tube defect prevention have not demonstrated a strong, direct effect of folic acid supplementation on miscarriage rates.
Major guidelines from bodies such as the World Health Organization and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend folic acid supplementation for women of reproductive age to prevent neural tube defects, but do not specifically recommend it for miscarriage prevention due to insufficient evidence. In summary, while folic acid is essential for early pregnancy and may confer some indirect benefits for pregnancy maintenance, the evidence for its use specifically to prevent miscarriage is limited and not conclusive.
More about Vitamin B9 (folic acid)
More about Miscarriage (prevention)
Other ingredients used for Miscarriage (prevention)
ashwagandhachaste tree
dong quai root
folate
maca
raspberry
vitamin B12
vitamin D
zinc
5-methyltetrahydrofolate glucosamine
Alchemilla
Aletris
Anserina
Abuta
Folic Acid
Other health conditions supported by Vitamin B9 (folic acid)
AnemiaBirth Defects (prevention)
Cancer Treatment (reducing side effects)
Depression
Infertility
Memory and Brain Function
Miscarriage (prevention)
Pregnancy (herbs and supplements for)