During pregnancy, your body requires additional amounts of certain vitamins to meet the needs of your growing infant. Your healthcare provider should discuss nutritional needs and recommend a prenatal vitamin supplement. A vitamin that is formulated especially for pregnant women will provide the higher levels of folic acid, iron and other essential vitamins and minerals that your body needs. Do not substitute children's vitamins or regular adult vitamins for prenatal supplements unless directed to do so by your doctor.
Role of Iron
Iron is essential for the formation of red blood cells that deliver oxygen throughout your body and your baby's body. During pregnancy, your blood volume increases dramatically to support the placenta and developing infant. According to the Baby Center website, higher levels of iron are needed at this time to prevent iron-deficiency anemia, a condition marked by weakness, fatigue, and a compromised immune system. Iron-deficiency anemia has been linked to low birth weights and an increased risk of premature birth.
Amounts
Adult women should receive 10 to 15 mg of iron daily. During pregnancy, you need 30 mg of iron, and while breastfeeding you should be getting 15 mg daily. According to MayoClinic.com, iron can be obtained from both animal products and plant foods. However, the heme form of iron in lean red meat, poultry and fish is more readily absorbed by the body. Plant foods that contain iron include spinach, beans and some fortified cereals.
Side Effects
Many women experience side effects from vitamin supplements that contain high levels of iron. The most commonly reported symptoms are constipation, nausea and gastrointestinal distress. Constipation may be managed by increasing your fluid consumption and adding fiber-rich foods to your diet. Do not discontinue the vitamin supplements, but discuss any unpleasant side effects with your doctor. She may be able to suggest an alternative formulation or dose to help minimize discomfort.
Other Vitamins
Prenatal vitamins should contain at least 800 mcg of folic acid. The Cleveland Clinic notes that this vitamin is critical in the early stages of development and helps prevent serious neural tube defects. Prenatal supplements should also contain 4,000 IU of vitamin A, 400 IU of vitamin D, 200 to 300 mg of calcium, 70 mg of vitamin C, 1.5 mg of thiamine, 1.6 mg of riboflavin, 2.6 mg of pyridoxine, 17 mg of niacinamide, 2.2 to 12 mcg of vitamin B-12, 10 mg of vitamin E and 15 mg of zinc. Neither children's vitamins nor regular adult multivitamins contain minerals and vitamins in these amounts.
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