Folic acid (vitamin B11) is necessary for growth and proper functioning of the body and for the production of white and red blood cells. Folic acid is also important for the early development of the unborn child. A folic acid deficiency causes anemia. An unborn child has an increased risk of spina bifida, cleft lip, and cleft palate. Women who are trying to conceive or are pregnant are advised to take 400 micrograms of folic acid daily until they are 10 weeks pregnant. This can reduce the risk of spina bifida, cleft lip, and cleft palate in their child.