What is a recommended preventive measure for women with a history of neural tube defects?

High-dose folic acid supplementation is a strongly recommended preventive measure for women with a history of neural tube defects. Folic acid is crucial for cell growth and development, especially during the early stages of pregnancy when the neural tube is forming. Evidence shows that adequate folic acid intake before conception and during the first trimester significantly reduces the risk of neural tube defects in subsequent pregnancies.

For women with a history of neural tube defects, healthcare providers often recommend higher doses of folic acid compared to the standard prenatal supplement. This proactive approach helps ensure that there is sufficient folate available to support proper fetal development and mitigate the risk of recurrence.

Other options, while beneficial in various contexts, do not directly address the specific preventive needs related to neural tube defects. Increased prenatal care visits and regular ultrasounds are important for monitoring pregnancy but do not prevent neural tube defects from occurring in the first place. Avoiding conception for one year may be advised for other reasons but does not provide a direct preventive measure against neural tube defects.