If you are pregnant, or thinking about becoming pregnant, you must prepare your body for the physical stress of pregnancy. A key factor of delivering a healthy baby -- and keeping your own body in optimal shape during pregnancy -- is taking a daily prenatal vitamin. This type of vitamin is vital for the pregnant woman because it provides essential folic acid, calcium, iron and a host of other vitamins and minerals necessary for a healthy pregnancy and a healthy fetus. However, like many supplements, prenatal vitamins can cause several uncomfortable side effects.
Side Effects
There are several possible side effects of taking prenatal vitamins. Women taking these supplements may experience nausea and stomach upset, particularly if this vitamin is taken on an empty stomach. Additionally, you may experience constipation if the prenatal vitamin has a high iron content. Vitamins that contain 30 milligrams or more of iron might also cause diarrhea; this is an uncommon reaction, however.
Gastritis
Gastritis is the inflammation of the stomach lining. Symptoms of gastritis can include bloating, nausea, upset stomach, vomiting or indigestion. Although many of the symptoms of gastritis are similar to the possible side effects of prenatal vitamins, these supplements may not directly cause gastritis. Gastritis can be caused by prolonged use of alcohol, cocaine, pain relievers and anti-inflammatory drugs, along with stress, certain types of bacterial infections, specific diseases and autoimmune disorders.
Remedies
To help prevent adverse side effects from prenatal vitamins, consider taking them with a meal or a small snack. Additionally, taking these vitamins at bedtime can help you avoid nausea, since you will be sleeping while the supplement dissolves and its components are absorbed in your digestive tract. If you must take your prenatal vitamins during the day, try chewing gum after taking the pill to help eliminate feelings of nausea.
Caution
Talk to your doctor about recommendations of specific types of prenatal vitamins and follow his instructions regarding dosage and frequency. Never take more than the prescribed dose of any medication, including prenatal vitamins. If you experience adverse reactions and symptoms from taking your prenatal vitamins, talk to your doctor about a possible substitute.
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