Side Effects
Follow all directions on the product package, or take as directed by your doctor. Do not take more than the recommended dosage. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.
Take with a full glass of water (8 ounces or 240 milliliters) unless your doctor directs you otherwise. Avoid taking antacids, dairy products, tea, or coffee within 2 hours before or after this medication because they may decrease its effectiveness. Do not lie down for at least 10 minutes after taking the tablets or capsules.
If you are taking the delayed-release form or extended-release capsules, swallow them whole. Also, do not split extended-release tablets unless they have a score line and your doctor or pharmacist tells you to do so. Swallow the whole or split tablet without crushing or chewing.
To help you remember, take it at the same time each da.
What Are Prenatal Multivitamins?
Minerals may also be contained in prenatal multivitamins. Prenatal multivitamins are used to provide the additional vitamins and minerals needed during pregnancy.
Prenatal multivitamins may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.
The Right Picks To Take You Through Your Pregnancy Journey
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Nutrient needs are increased during pregnancy to support the growth and development of the fetus while also supporting the health of the mother.
But With So Many Prenatal Vitamins Out There, How Do You Make The Right Choice?
It is important to make sure prenatal supplements have been tested by third-party labs and offer maximum transparency to consumers. Some specialized prenatal vitamins may also have other pregnancy-related additives, including DHA (which is an omega-3 fatty acid). Women may need to try a few different prenatal supplements before finding one that does not have undesired side effects, such as nausea or constipation.
Here, the best prenatal vitamins for all your need.
Why Is Folic Acid Important During Pregnancy?
It’s important for the proper organ development of a developing baby. Research shows that taking folic acid before you get pregnant may help prevent birth defects including serious neural tube defects such as spina bifida, encephalocele (rarely), and anencephaly.
If the neural tube doesn’t close properly, neural tube defects occur. Anencephaly is a condition in which the brain doesn’t develop properly. Babies born with spina bifida or encephalocele may face multiple surgeries, paralysis, and long-term disability.
These defects occur in 8 out of every 1,000 births in the United States. According to the American Heart Association , congenital heart defects happen when the heart or blood vessels don’t grow normally before birth. These birth defects occur if parts of the mouth and lip do not merge together properly during the first 6 to 10 weeks of pregnancy.
Can You Get Enough Folic Acid From Foods?
Some foods in the United States are fortified with folic acid. Even so, it may be hard to know exactly how much you’re getting unless you track the amounts of folate and folic acid in everything you eat. To make sure you get enough folic acid, doctors will usually recommend taking a folic acid supplement or a prenatal vitamin that contains folic acid before and during pregnancy.
You can’t get too much natural folate from foods.