The Complete Guide to Prenatal Vitamins

Prenatal vitamins are essential for supporting your baby's development and your own health during pregnancy. Here's what you need to know.

Why Prenatal Vitamins Matter

Even with a healthy diet, it's challenging to get all the nutrients you need during pregnancy from food alone. Prenatal vitamins fill in the gaps.

Key Nutrients to Look For

Folic Acid (400-800 mcg)

Critical for preventing neural tube defects. Start taking it before conception if possible.

Iron (27 mg)

Supports increased blood volume and prevents anemia.

Calcium (1000 mg)

Essential for your baby's bone development.

DHA (200-300 mg)

An omega-3 fatty acid crucial for brain and eye development.

Vitamin D (600 IU)

Supports calcium absorption and immune function.

When to Start Taking Prenatals

Ideally, start taking prenatal vitamins at least one month before trying to conceive. The neural tube develops very early, often before you know you're pregnant.

Tips for Taking Prenatals

• Take with food to reduce nausea
• If morning sickness is severe, try taking at night
• Choose a formula with gentle iron if you experience constipation
• Consider gummy vitamins if you have trouble swallowing pills