The greatest method to obtain the vitamins and minerals you require is through a balanced diet. But you may not get enough essential nutrients when you're pregnant. Prenatal vitamins can help make up for any deficiencies if you're expecting or already pregnant.

Why are prenatal vitamins important?

You require higher-than-normal amounts of iron and folic acid when pregnant. This is the reason why:

• Neural tube malformations are prevented in part by folic acid. These malformations are severe brain and spinal cord abnormalities in fetuses. Ideally, you should start taking extra folic acid three months or more prior to getting pregnant.
• The placenta and developing fetus benefit from iron. Your body needs iron to produce blood, which carries oxygen to the fetus. Anemia is a disorder in which the blood's healthy red blood cells are insufficient. Iron aids in preventing anemia.

Which prenatal vitamin is best?

Prenatal vitamins can be purchased at almost any pharmacy without a prescription. Your physician may advise you to use a particular brand or may give you the option to choose.

Look for a prenatal vitamin that contains calcium and vitamin D in addition to folic acid and iron. They support the growth of the baby's bones and teeth. Seeking for a prenatal vitamin that includes zinc, iodine, B vitamins, vitamin C, vitamin A, and vitamin E may also be helpful.

Additionally, depending on the situation, your healthcare provider may recommend larger dosages of specific nutrients. For instance, your doctor may advise taking a different supplement with a larger dosage of folic acid, such 4 milligrams (4,000 micrograms), before and throughout any further pregnancies if you gave birth to a child who has a neural tube defect.

However, generally speaking, stay away from taking more multivitamins or prenatal vitamins than you require on a regular basis. Certain vitamin dosages may be dangerous for your unborn child. For instance, taking too much vitamin A when pregnant may be harmful to the unborn child.

Do I need to be concerned about other nutrients?

Many types of fish naturally include omega-3 fatty acids, which support a baby's brain development. In addition to prenatal vitamins, your healthcare professional may suggest omega-3 fatty acid supplements if you don't eat fish or other foods high in these fats.

When should I start taking prenatal vitamins?

Prenatal vitamins should ideally be started prior to conception. In actuality, taking prenatal vitamins on a daily basis is generally advised for women who are of reproductive age. Perhaps even before you realize you're pregnant, during the first month of pregnancy, the neural tube that will eventually develop into the baby's brain and spinal cord begins to form.

Do prenatal vitamins have any side effects?

Sometimes the iron in prenatal vitamins contributes to constipation. To prevent constipation:

• Drink plenty of fluids
• Include more fiber in your diet
• Include physical activity in your daily routine, as long as you have your health care provider's OK
• Ask your health care provider about using a stool softener

If these tips don't seem to help, ask your health care provider about other options