Prenatal vitamins provide an expectant mother with nutrients necessary for a healthy pregnancy. There are many different vitamins to choose from, over the counter and prescriptive formulas. Choosing the best vitamin for you and your baby is a decision to be made in conjunction with your health care provider. However, some of these vitamins may cause side effects that, if unbearable, may warrant changing to another brand.
Constipation
Prenatal vitamins have a higher iron content than many other types of vitamins. Many women complain of constipation from their vitamins. Vitamin companies have begun adding a stool softener called colace to many of their vitamins. If you are experiencing constipation, be sure to check if your vitamin contains a stool softener. If so, you may need to modify your diet to alleviate your constipation. Drink more water and eat more fiber to help with constipation. You may also consider using an over the counter fiber supplement such as Metamucil to your diet. If these measures do not help, you may want to speak to your health care provider.
Nausea
Many women experience nausea after taking their vitamin. This may also be due to morning sickness, which affects many women through their pregnancies. It is advisable to take your vitamin with food, and not on an empty stomach. You may also consider taking it at night before bed with a small snack. If your nausea is intolerable, there are medications that your provider may prescribe to alleviate this symptoms.
Headache
Headache is another common side effect of prenatal vitamins. Usually the headache is related to pregnancy hormones, and not the vitamin itself. Again, taking your vitamin with food or in the evening may help. If you are experiencing routine headaches you should consult your physician to rule out any other type of illness.
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