What Are Prenatal Vitamins?
Prenatal vitamins are supplements made for pregnant women to give their bodies the vitamins and minerals needed for a healthy pregnancy. Your doctor may suggest that you take them when you begin to plan for pregnancy, as well as while you’re pregnant. Eating a healthy diet is always a wise idea — especially during pregnancy.
It’s also a good idea to take a prenatal vitamin to help cover any nutritional gaps in your diet.
What To Look For In Prenatal Vitamins
Prenatal vitamins help ensure that you get the nutrients you need for a healthy pregnancy. Look for prenatal vitamins that have: 400 micrograms (mcg) of folic acid
400 IU of vitamin D
200 to 300 milligrams (mg) of calcium
70 mg of vitamin C
3 mg of thiamine
2 mg of riboflavin
20 mg of niacin
6 mcg of vitamin B12
10 mg of vitamin E
15 mg of zinc
17 mg of iron
150 micrograms of iodine In some cases, your doctor will give you a prescription for a certain type of prenatal vitamin.
What Are Prenatal Vitamins?
Prenatal vitamins are made for people who are pregnant or are trying to get pregnant.
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What Are Prenatal Vitamins?
Some women, like those who have had a pregnancy affected by NTDs or with sickle cell disease, may need more folic acid. Talk to your doctor or nurse about the dose that is right for you.
When Do I Need To Start Taking Prenatal Vitamins?
Start taking folic acid at least 1 month before you start trying to get pregnant.
Keep taking prenatal vitamins throughout your entire pregnancy.
Do Prenatal Vitamins Have Side Effects?
Some people get nauseated or constipated from taking prenatal vitamins. Your doctor or midwife can help you find a prenatal vitamin that will work best for your body.