It’s possible that you have many questions about prenatal vitamins. Do you need to take them? Are they necessary? Do prenatal vitamins have side effects? The answers to all your questions are here in these frequently asked questions, so keep reading for more information on prenatal vitamins, how you should take them, and more.
What are prenatal vitamins?
When you’re pregnant, the quantity and type of vitamins and minerals your body needs change. This is why the vitamins taken by pregnant women are different from adult multivitamins. Prenatal vitamins contain more folic acid and iron, both of which are important for expectant mothers. They may also include more omega-3 fatty acids and may contain an additional effort of calcium and vitamin D.
Do I need prenatal vitamins?
While a healthy diet during pregnancy can help keep you well-nourished, sometimes you need a bit of additional support. During pregnancy, your body needs more folic acid and iron than when you’re not pregnant. Getting enough of these two nutrients can be challenging through diet alone, which is where prenatal vitamins come in to help fill the gap. Additionally, according to some research, taking prenatal vitamins may also reduce the risk of the baby being born underweight.
However, taking prenatal vitamins doesn’t mean that eating healthily and getting a wide range of nutrients isn’t important. You can continue reading about healthy foods to consume during pregnancy to help you get the nutrients you need.
What are the best prenatal vitamins?
You can ask your doctor to recommend the best brand for you. Prenatal vitamins typically contain:
You can benefit from a vitamin that also includes:
• Vitamin C
• Vitamin A
• Vitamin E
• Zinc
• Iodine
• Copper
You can choose a prenatal vitamin with DHA and other omega-3 fatty acids that can help promote your baby’s brain development, especially if you don’t eat fish or other foods rich in these substances.
Talk to your doctor about taking prenatal vitamins and always consult them before taking any new type of suppleament.
When should I start taking prenatal vitamins?
If you’re trying to conceive, it’s a good idea to take prenatal vitamins to ensure you get enough folic acid. Your baby’s neural tube, which will become the spinal cord and brain, develops during your first month of pregnancy, when you may not even know you’re pregnant. Discuss any questions or concerns with your doctor.
How long do I continue taking prenatal vitamins?
It’s a good idea to take prenatal vitamins throughout your pregnancy; however, your doctor might recommend that you continue taking them even after your baby is born. Prenatal vitamins can be specifically beneficial if you’re breastfeeding.
Do prenatal vitamins have any side effects?
Some women may feel a bit nauseous after taking prenatal vitamins. You can avoid this by taking your prenatal vitamins with a snack or just before bedtime.
Sometimes, iron can cause constipation. Here are some ways to prevent it:
• Drink plenty of fluids
• Add more fiber to your diet
• Engage in some exercise, as long as your doctor allows it
• Talk to your doctor about other options, such as taking a stool softener
If you still have problems with side effects, talk to your doctor about alternatives. They may recommend a different brand or provide separate supplements with folic acid, iron, or calcium with vitamin D.
What if I have trouble swallowing the pills?
Sometimes, you may find prenatal pills too large to swallow. An alternative is to try chewable or gummy prenatal vitamins.
Getting all the nutrients you need is important for your health and your baby’s health. Maintaining a healthy diet is a good way to naturally get the vitamins and minerals you need, but prenatal vitamins can help give your baby the best possible start in life.
In Summary
Taking prenatal vitamins can aid in the better development of your pregnancy. Knowing which ones are the best, when you can start taking them, and understanding their potential side effects is a key topic to consider so that you have all the necessary nutrients during your gestation period.
