Serum vitamin b(12) and folate levels in women taking oral contraceptives.

Serum vitamin B(12) and erythrocyte folate levels were determined in a group of healthy women eating a balanced diet. Approximately 50% were using oral contraceptives. Vitamin B(12) levels were lower in the oral contraceptive users. However, their folate levels were no different from those of non-users. Age had no effect on either vitamin B(12) or folate levels. Oral contraceptive users taking multiple vitamin tablets containing vitamin B(12) and folate had slightly higher folate levels, but their vitamin B(12) levels were no different from those of OC users who were not taking vitamin tablets. Hemoglobin and hematocrit levels were not affected by oral contraceptive steroids. No case of megaloblastosis was found. Regular folate supplementation is not required for OC users. In fact, such supplementation may be dangerous.