This is a real-world medical entrance exam question, please give the true answer based on the question and selection. Topic name: None, Subject name: Gynaecology & Obstetrics
[{'content': 'Use of folic acid to prevent congenital malformation should be best initiated : \nSelect and explain. \nA. During 1st trimester of pregnancy, B. During 2nd trimester of pregnancy, C. During 3rd trimester of pregnancy, D. Before conception', 'role': 'user'}, {'content': 'Answer: D \nExplanation: Ans. is d i.e. before conception "Folic acid has been shown to effectively reduce the risk of neural tube defects (NTD\'s). A daily 4 mg dose is recommended for patients who have had a previous pregnancy affected by neural tube defects. It should be staed atleast 1 month (ideally 3 months) prior to pregnancy and continued through the first 6-12 weeks of pregnancy." Remember : Folic acid is used to reduce the risk of neural tube defect Therapeutic dose of folic acid (to be given in females with previous history of baby with NTD) - 4mg. Prophylactic dose of folic acid - 0.4mg i.e. 400 mcg Duration :It should be staed 1 month before conception and continued till first 6-12 weeks of pregnancy. Note : Women with insulin dependant diabetes mellitus and those with seizure disorders treated by valproic acid) and carbamazepine are also at greater risk for NTD\'s.', 'role': 'assistant'}]