Neural Tube Defects, like spina bifida, have long been associated with low folic acid. The Institute of Medicine released its recommendations in spring of 1998 (based on neural tube defect research) on the amount of folic acid to take as follows:

General Public trying to get pregnant -- 0.4 mg
If you had a child with defect -- 4.0 mg
General Public, Later in pregnancy -- 0.6 mg

How Much Folic Acid Preconceptually (800mcg)

If you have epilepsy, please check with your physician. Many of the anti-seizure drugs are anti-folates (decrease folic acid) Some studies indicate you should take 1 mg per day.

A couple of months ago I wrote an article on this issue.  I did this
because there is so much dangerous garbage on newsgroups and web sites
coming from none qualified people.  It just occurred to me that your
organization might be interested in either linking to my article or even
reproducing it.

Regards
Martin Watt
http://www.aromamedical.com
 

MEDICAL TESTING

Pre-Natal CVS testing - If done before the 9th week has been known to cause birth defects including clefts.

Prenatal CVS Testing Cause of Clefting

ENVIRONMENTAL