Benefits of Prenatal Vitamins

Benefits of Prenatal Vitamins

Prenatal vitamins include supplements that assist the body with the physical demands of

pregnancy and aid in the growth of the fetus. Taking prenatal vitamins increases a woman’s chance of having a healthy baby and a happy pregnancy. Many experts say that taking a daily prenatal vitamin before and during pregnancy can help prevent certain types of neural tube birth defects.
A pregnant woman’s calcium requirements are increased during pregnancy. Prenatal vitamins are one of the most effective dietary supplements to prevent the loss of bone density in a pregnant mother while supplying the fetus with the necessary calcium for bone development. The families of B complex vitamins, found in prenatal vitamins, are also known to improve the condition of your hair and nails.
What is in a Good Prenatal vitamin?


A good quality prenatal vitamin will have the following:

• 400-600 mcg Folic Acid
• 400 IU Vitamin D
• 1000-2000 mg Calcium
• 70-110 mg Vitamin C
• 3 mg Thiamine (Vitamin B1)
• 2 mg Riboflavin (Vitamin B2)
• 2 mg Niacin (Vitamin B3)
• 2 mg Vitamin B6
• 2-2.8 mcg Vitamin B12
• 10 mg Vitamin E
• 11-15 mg Zinc
• 17-27mg Iron

If you are unsure what you need in a prenatal vitamin, discuss your nutritional and health needs with your doctor. Some women require additional vitamin supplements not fulfilled by standard prenatal vitamins. Calcium and iron supplements can be added to a daily prenatal vitamin to counteract any deficiencies. As with any medication or vitamin supplement, speak with your doctor before you began or change your vitamin supplements.
Side Effects of Prenatal Vitamins





Most women will not experience any side effects from taking prenatal vitamins. However, some women do find that their vitamins can cause nausea. Indigestion and heart burn are also common side effects of prenatal vitamins. Changing the time of day and taking prenatal vitamins with food or a glass of milk can often remedy these side effects. If nausea is severe, your doctor

may prescribe a chewable or liquid prenatal vitamin.
Regular visits to your doctor, along with a good prenatal vitamin, can help to ensure that you have a healthy pregnancy and baby.