When you become pregnant, it is wise to talk to your doctor about taking prenatal vitamin supplements. These supplements help ensure that you and your baby get the vitamins and minerals needed for proper growth and development throughout the pregnancy. It is important to look carefully at the nutrition label to determine the exact type and amount of each vitamin and mineral in the supplement.
Serving Size
The standard serving size of many brands of prenatal vitamins is one pill, but some brands have a serving size of two pills. Always check the serving size and dosing information on the label before beginning to take prenatal vitamins. Remember that the amount and daily value listed on the label is based on this serving size and not necessarily for each pill.
Nutritional Facts
Prenatal vitamins generally do not contain any calories, fat, cholesterol, sodium, carbohydrate, fiber, sugar or protein. Each brand of prenatal vitamins may contain different vitamins and minerals. Generally speaking, most prenatal vitamins will contain folic acid, calcium, vitamin A, vitamin C, calcium, iron, vitamin D, vitamin E, thiamin, riboflavin, niacin, vitamin B6, folic acid, vitamin B-12 and zinc.
Amounts
Although most prenatal vitamins contain the same types of vitamins and minerals, the amounts may vary depending on the brand. Ask your doctor which prenatal vitamins contain the ideal recommended daily value of each vitamin and mineral for your specific situation. Prenatal vitamins typically should contain 200 to 300 mg of calcium, 4,000 and 5,000 IU of vitamin A, 400 IU of vitamin D, 800 to 1,000 mcg of folic acid, 70 mg of vitamin C, 2.6 mg of pyridoxide, 1.5 mg of thiamine, 17 mg of niacin, 1.6 mg of riboflavin, 2.2 to 12 mcg of vitamin B-12, 15 mg of zinc, 10 mg of vitamin E and 30 mg of iron, according to the Cleveland Clinic.
Warning
Women may experience unpleasant or harmful side effects when taking too much of certain vitamins or minerals. Pregnant women should avoid taking more than 100 percent of the daily value of each vitamin or mineral unless they have a doctor's permission to do so, recommends the American Pregnancy Association. Ask your doctor if you have any questions or concerns about how to take these supplements.
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