What Vitamins Should Be Taken While Pregnant?

During pregnancy, a healthy balance of vitamins and nutrients in the body is important for the health of mother and child. While Birth.com.au notes that women eating a healthful diet obtain most of the vitamins and minerals they need from their food, some women want to take additional vitamins. Though each woman's dietary needs are different, some vitamins are popularly recommended to pregnant women.

Vitamin B12

Vitamin B12 has been linked with healthy nervous systems and is popularly said to promote new cell creation, according to Babyworld UK. Women who eat a diet free of animal-based foods may be deficient in vitamin B12 and need to take a supplement of this vitamin while pregnant.

Calcium

Calcium, which is a mineral, not a vitamin, is recommended for pregnant women due to its role in healthy bone development. NHS Choices notes that deficiencies in calcium levels may be a cause of soft bones in infants, and that calcium supplements are often combined with vitamin D supplements for a greater effect on bone health.

Vitamin C

Vitamin C is popularly taken for a healthy immune system and warding off illness, and during pregnancy some women find that it helps them maintain a regular digestive flow. However, Babyworld UK notes that some studies question its efficacy and health benefits when taken in large doses during pregnancy.

Vitamin D

Vitamin D is associated with healthy bone development in the unborn child. Babyworld UK notes that this supplement may be particularly important for women who do not get sun exposure for natural vitamin D synthesis, and for women who do not eat dairy, fish or eggs--the natural dietary sources of vitamin D.

Folic Acid

Folic acid is one of the most popularly recommended vitamin supplements for pregnant women based on its record as a birth defect prevention vitamin. NHS Choices reports that folic acid is known to prevent neural tube defects such as those that cause spinal bifida. Folic acid is especially important in women who have already had a baby with spinal bifida, women with celiac disease and women who have diabetes or epilepsy.