Myths vs facts: Folsäure and fertility

Folic acid (vitamin B9) is undeniably critical for cell division and DNA synthesis, especially during pregnancy. Deficiency clearly increases the risk of neural tube defects in the fetus. However, evidence for a direct improvement in fertility (e.g., ovulation, implantation) through folic acid supplementation in non-deficient women is weak. Many claims on social media or from DTC tests conflate the preventive benefit with alleged fertility boosters. Randomized controlled trials show no consistent effect on conception rates. In men, some data suggest folic acid may improve sperm quality, but the evidence is heterogeneous. MyBody-X tests for folate-related gene variants (e.g., MTHFR) are not included in the provided context; even if they were, clinical actionability would be unclear. Bottom line: folic acid is essential for a healthy pregnancy, but as a 'fertility wonder' it is a myth. A balanced diet with folate from green leafy vegetables is usually sufficient; supplementation should be need-based.