Folic Acid is very important for all women who want to become pregnant. It should be taken during the preconception period, the time right before and right after a woman becomes pregnant. This protects the fetus from malformation and serious birth defects mostly the neural tube defects which result in malformations of the baby's spine, skull, and the brain. Hence, taking folic acid significantly reduces these defects however it should also be consumed with a healthy diet prior and during pregnancy. If you are pregnant i suggest you also take a pill called Elevit (not sure of the spelling) for pregnancy it has all the necessary vitamins needed for a pregnant women; check it out at any pharmacy. best of luck.