Dr Ategbese Simeon, a medical doctor at the Abubakar Tafawa Balewa Teaching Hospital (ATBU-TH), Bauchi has said that folic acid is an important medication during pregnancy because it helps to develop the brain and spinal cord of babies.
During an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria, Dr Simeon said “The lack of folic acid can cause defect which is known to be neural tube defect.
“Folic acid helps in the development of brain and spinal cord, so pregnant women should be encouraged to take their medication as prescribed by doctors.
“Folic acid is not expensive; pregnant women can afford it and it enables them to have healthy babies.’’
He also encouraged pregnant women to do exercises that will strengthen their pelvic muscles because pregnancy, childbirth, surgery, aging, excessive straining from constipation or chronic coughing, and being overweight can weaken the muscles.
He emphasized the importance of seeking medical advice from a doctor especially during pregnancy because self medication can harm the baby.
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