Whether you're trying to get pregnant or already are, you're probably making an effort to eat healthy and nutritious foods. Nevertheless, it's still possible for you to fall short on key nutrients that both you and your growing baby need. Prenatal vitamins are essential in helping to fill any gaps in this area, so it's important to learn all that you can about them.
Function
You and your developing baby require specific vitamins and nutrients to be healthy. Folic acid, calcium and iron, for example, are particularly important at this time. But getting the required amounts through foods alone can be a challenge. Taking prenatal vitamins ensures you get the vitamins and nutrients you and your baby need.
Time Frame
The nutrients in prenatal vitamins contribute to every stage of your baby's development. It's recommended you begin taking prenatal vitamins three months before the baby is even conceived, particularly since the neural tube, which becomes the brain and spinal cord, develops during the very first month of pregnancy. If you did not take prenatal vitamins before the pregnancy, begin right away. You can purchase prenatal vitamins without a prescription at most pharmacies, but check with your doctor before you begin taking them. Once your doctor approves, you can take the prenatal vitamins throughout your pregnancy. They may even help boost your energy levels.
Nutrients
Prenatal vitamins contain nutrients that are needed during pregnancy. Iron, calcium and folic acid are particularly important and included in prenatal vitamins. Iron helps prevent anemia and contributes to the development of blood and muscle cells in both you and your baby. Calcium helps the circulatory, muscular and nervous systems run normally and encourages strong bones and teeth. Folic acid helps prevent brain and spinal cord defects.
Considerations
Taking prenatal vitamins can have some side effects. They may cause nausea in certain women, so consider taking them with a light snack or at night before you go to bed. Taking them with water or juice instead of milk or soda might also help. Prenatal vitamins can cause some women to experience constipation, so be sure to drink plenty of water and choose foods that are high in fiber, like whole grains and fruits.
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