Folic Acid Dosage for Pregnancy: A Concerned Mother's Question

Question
Hello Cheri, my question concerns the amount of folic acid that a 32 year old pregnant woman can take. I take a multivit+mineral supplement every day that contains 200mcg of folic acid and also the 400 mcg folic acid supplement recommended by the doctor. Is this ok or am I taking too much/too little? I have asked others but they don't seem to know and my doctor is always far too busy for me just to 'pop in' and ask. Hope you can help. Best wishes, Gailyn.

Answer
Hello Gailyn- My souces say that if there is NO history of birth defects in the family- take 1-2mg a day- that is 1000-2000 mcgs- you are not taking nearly enough. IF there IS a history of spinal cord defects in the family- either side- take 4000mcg. a day. Hope that helps- Cheri.