Having a baby can be an exciting time in your life, but you have to ensure that you're healthy before you begin trying to conceive. Your health can influence the health of your unborn baby, even before conception, according to WomensHealth.gov. Before becoming pregnant, ask your health care provider to examine you and make sure your health is optimal for pregnancy.
Preconception Health
Preconception health is the term health care providers use to describe your health before becoming pregnant. You should begin taking 400mcg of folic acid daily at least three months prior to becoming pregnant. Prenatal vitamins contain folic acid, but they also contain two other important vitamins for a healthy pregnancy: iron and calcium. Taking too much iron that your body doesn't need can cause side effects such as constipation, nausea and vomiting. Ask your health care provider exactly which supplements you should take and which dosage is right for you.
Prenatal Care
Prenatal vitamins are essential to your unborn baby. Prenatal vitamins help give your body and the baby the extra nutrients that you both need. During pregnancy, your blood volume increases, this then makes your body demand more iron. The baby needs additional calcium while she develops bones and continues to grow. If you don't receive enough calcium, the baby will deplete your body's supply. This can leave you with weakened bones and teeth. Folic acid helps prevent certain birth defects such as spina bifida and other neurological problems.
Postnatal Care
After the birth of your baby, you may still need to take prenatal vitamins. Ask your doctor if this is right for you. If you plan on or are breastfeeding, your body may still need the additional calcium and iron provided by prenatal vitamins. If your prenatal vitamins provide too much iron for your body and you experience side effects such as nausea or constipation, talk to your doctor about taking a lower-dose iron supplement instead. Only do as instructed by your health care provider to ensure your and your baby's health.
What If You're Not Pregnant?
If you make a decision to not have children or wait until a later age to start a family, do not take prenatal vitamins. Some women believe that prenatal vitamins will help them grow long, beautiful hair and nails, but the vitamins and minerals in prenatal vitamins have no effect on hair and nail growth, according to the Mayo Clinic. If you do not plan on becoming pregnant, but are worried about whether you're receiving enough nutrients, talk to your physician about taking a multivitamin.
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