Nearly 75 percent of pregnant women will be lacking in one or more vitamins during the term of their pregnancy, according to Multiple Births Canada. Morning sickness, constipation, physical discomfort or lack of motivation may cause you not to take supplements, which may contribute to a deficiency in one or more vitamins. But taking vitamins during pregnancy, under the supervision of your health care provider, has two-fold benefits -- maintaining your own health, and providing adequate nutrition for the development of your baby.
Folic Acid
Folic acid, or folate, taken prior to conception and during your first trimester, states the Northern Arizona University, may help prevent defects in the development of your baby's brain and spinal column, as well as prevent cleft lip and palate. Remaining on folic acid for the pregnancy's duration is beneficial, as well; folic acid plays a key role in ensuring your baby's growth, thus preventing a low birth weight. Babies born with inadequate birth weight may be susceptible to infections, respiratory problems and other health issues.
Vitamin B6
Vitamin B6 is necessary for the functioning of over 100 enzymes. A vitamin B6 deficiency in pregnant women may cause severe nausea and vomiting. It may also lead to poor pancreatic functioning. Your pancreas is responsible for the production of insulin, which plays a key role in the metabolising of blood glucose. An impairment in this system may cause gestational diabetes -- diabetes that occurs during the length of the pregnancy. The Linus Pauling Insitute notes that a lack of vitamin B6 in the newborn may also lead to seizures.
Calcium and Vitamin D
Calcium requirements in the fetus are necessary for the development of its skeletal structure, especially in the last few months when bones grow longer. Calcium is needed for nerve, heart and muscle growth, and to start the beating of your baby's heart. Calcium is so crucial, the fetus may leach it from your bones, states the Linus Pauling Institute. Vitamin D is also necessary to utilize calcium. Increasing calcium may reduce your risk of pre-eclampsia, or hypertension, during your pregnancy, according to the Institute. It also notes that pregnancy-induced-hypertension occurs in 10 percent of pregnancies.
Vitamin A
Vitamin A, as a pre-natal supplement, should be closely supervised by your doctor. Vitamin A taken in excess may cause birth defects. However, adequate amounts are necessary for embryonic and fetal development. Vitamin A is needed for the growth and development of your baby's arms and legs, and the formation of the ears, eyes and heart. Without enough vitamin A, regulation of the growth hormone would not be possible.
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