WOMEN are failing to recognise the importance of taking folic acid in pregnancy.

A MORI poll commissioned by medical research charity Action Research shows that despite the publicity, only around half of women age 15 to 55 realise that taking the supplement can prevent spina bifida in unborn babies.

Thirty years ago Action Research discovered clues suggesting that the folic acid vitamin could help to stop neural tube defects including spina bifida, which currently accounts for 10pc of all birth defects.

One in five women surveyed were unaware of the health benefits of folic acid, with one third of these already having had a baby or currently pregnant. Only 15pc of women followed advice and used the supplement while trying for a baby and during pregnancy.

"The MORI poll demonstrates that there is widespread ignorance, with a considerable proportion of women still unclear about the benefits of folic acid and, or, failing to take it appropriately," said John Grounds of Action Research.

The charity said the survey results should add ammunition to the calls for folic acid to be added to flour, so helping to prevent neural tube defects in unplanned pregnancies.

It is recommended that women trying to become pregnant should take 400mcg of folic acid a day until the 12th week of pregnancy.