Everyone needs folic acid, but it's especially important if you're a woman who's pregnant or may become pregnant. If you don't get sufficient folic acid in the first 28 days after conception, your baby is at a higher risk of having spinal bifida or anencephaly. Folic acid isn't the only nutrient you need more of during pregnancy, though. So taking a supplement that supplies other vitamins and minerals is a good idea.
Nutrients of Concern
Besides folic acid, you need extra calcium and iron during pregnancy. The omega-3 fatty acid DHA may also be helpful, but most prenatal vitamins do not include DHA. You can get it from your diet or from a separate supplement. But getting too much iron or vitamins A, D, E and K can be harmful to you and your baby, so monitor your intake of these nutrients from supplements.
Choosing a Prenatal Vitamin
Choose a prenatal vitamin that has 100 percent of the recommended dietary allowance of folic acid, but no more. Your doctor can recommend the right prenatal vitamin for you. If the vitamin you take causes any unpleasant side effects, such as heartburn or acid reflux, speak with your doctor, as other prenatal vitamins may not have the same side effects.
Folic Acid Instead of Prenatal Vitamins
If you take folic acid supplements instead of prenatal vitamins, you might not get enough of the other vitamins and minerals you need. Do not combine folic acid supplements with a regular multivitamin unless you do so under the supervision of your doctor, as you may exceed the amount of folic acid you need.
Considerations
Regardless of which supplement you take, you still need to concentrate on eating healthy, nutrient-rich foods during your pregnancy. Taking a prenatal vitamin helps to ensure that you get sufficient amounts of the essential vitamins and minerals you need to maintain your health and optimize your baby's development.
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