How does methylfolate support postpartum recovery?
Methylfolate is an active, bioavailable form of folate that has been shown to support healthy postpartum recovery in several ways:
- Red blood cell production
Folate is essential for healthy red blood cell production, which supports energy levels and the delivery of oxygen to the tissues. Normal folate levels also help to prevent megaloblastic anemia, which can lead to postpartum fatigue and impaired physical recovery.
Women taking prenatal supplements containing methylfolate were found to have significantly higher erythrocyte folate during lactation than women taking folic acid, suggesting that methylfolate is more efficient at maintaining healthy folate levels in the early postpartum period.1
- Mental health and mood
Folate is required for the production of SAMe and neurotransmitters such as serotonin, which support the nervous system and healthy mood. Folate deficiency is a potential contributing factor to postpartum psychosis and depression.2
A 2020 study reported an association between MTHFR C677T, low folate levels, and a higher risk of mood disorders such as mania and depression in women during the postpartum period. The authors noted that an increase in homocysteine levels resulting from folate deficiency and/or MTHFR mutations is a possible risk factor for neuropsychiatric disorders.3
Multiple studies have shown that methylfolate supplementation significantly improves symptoms of depression.4 A 2019 study found that a prenatal supplement containing methylfolate helped to prevent and reduce symptoms of perinatal depression.5
- Prevention of unmetabolized folic acid
Folic acid supplementation is recommended during pregnancy, but has been shown to increase unmetabolized folic acid (UMFA) in breastmilk, which may be less bioavailable for the baby. Women supplemented with methylfolate produced breastmilk with a folate profile containing bioavailable folate and only 2% UMFA, compared with 28% in the breastmilk of women taking folic acid.6
- Homocysteine management
Vitamin B12 and folate, along with cofactors such as vitamin B6, are required for the conversion of homocysteine to methionine.7 Research has shown that pre-eclampsia disorders are associated with lower folate and higher homocysteine levels postpartum. Combinations of methylfolate, P5P (vitamin B6) and methylcobalamin (B12) are shown to result in significant reduction in homocysteine levels, although specific studies regarding postpartum supplementation are limited.8
For women affected by elevated homocysteine and/or high blood pressure, supplementing with 400-800 µg methylfolate (in either a B‑complex or “postnatal” formula) for at least 3 months postpartum may be recommended to help reduce homocysteine. This should be discussed with a healthcare professional.
