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Why timing matters before pregnancy
You may already know that folate (Vitamin B9) is essential during pregnancy. What’s less commonly understood is that when you start taking it matters just as much as taking it at all.
For many women, pregnancy supplementation begins after a positive test. And while that support is still meaningful and beneficial, some of the most important stages of early development happen very soon after conception — often before you even realise you’re pregnant.
That’s where timing becomes important.
Why folate is so important
Folate plays a critical role in early foetal development. It supports:
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Formation of the neural tube (which develops into the brain and spinal cord)
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Early nervous system development
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Rapid cell division and DNA synthesis
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Healthy placental development
The neural tube closes within the first 3–4 weeks of pregnancy — a window when many women don’t yet know they’ve conceived.
Because these foundational processes happen so early, consistent folate intake before pregnancy provides valuable support during this critical window.
When should you start taking folate?
For those planning to conceive, folate supplementation is commonly recommended for at least three months prior to conception, and continued throughout pregnancy and breastfeeding.
This allows your body time to build and maintain adequate folate levels before those early developmental processes begin.
Starting early may help reduce the risk of certain developmental irregularities, including:
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Neural tube defects
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Certain congenital heart defects
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Limb deformities
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Cleft palate
Of course, if you’ve already conceived and are just beginning a prenatal — that support is still absolutely worthwhile. Nutrient needs increase throughout pregnancy, and ongoing supplementation continues to play an important role across all stages.
Why methylfolate matters
Not all folate is the same.
Methylfolate is the active, bioavailable form of Vitamin B9. Unlike folic acid, it does not require conversion by the body to become usable — which may be particularly relevant for individuals with an MTHFR gene variation.
Choosing a prenatal that contains methylfolate ensures your body can readily access and utilise this important nutrient.
Your complete prenatal supplement, now with extra perks
At Naternal Vitamins, we designed EverNatal to support women across preconception, pregnancy, and postpartum — because nourishment doesn’t stop at a positive test.
EverNatal includes:
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Methyl-folate for optimal absorption
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The highest dose of choline in Australia
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Practitioner-formulated, science-backed ingredients
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A formula suitable for those with an MTHFR gene variation
For many women, consistency is the hardest part — especially when life is already full.
That’s why subscribing to EverNatal is a simple way to support uninterrupted daily use during critical stages of maternal and foetal development.
When you subscribe, you’ll automatically join Naternal’s Inner Circle, our subscriber rewards program designed to make looking after yourself easier.
As an Inner Circle member, you’ll receive:
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10% off every order
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Free domestic shipping
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A welcome gift when you join
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Early access to new product launches
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Early access to sales and promotions
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A direct line to our team for product support and questions
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Free entry into exclusive quarterly giveaways
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Flexible delivery — pause, skip or cancel anytime
Because when it comes to folate — and pregnancy — timing and consistency both matter.
And your body deserves support from the very beginning.
