Nearly 1 in every 33 babies is born with a birth defect. Although not all birth defects are preventable, a woman can take steps to increase her chances of having a healthy baby. Taking a prenatal vitamin for example, ensures you’re getting the right amount of vitamins and nutrients before and during pregnancy— ultimately increasing the chances of having a healthy baby.
When Should You Start Taking Prenatal Vitamins
Not sure when to start taking prenatal vitamins? Ideally, the earlier the better. If you’re looking to conceive soon or are actively trying to conceive, we suggest taking prenatal vitamins before conception. According to the Mayo Clinic, it’s generally a good idea for women of reproductive age to regularly take a prenatal vitamin. Prenatal vitamins help with the development of your baby, in particular the baby’s neural tube. The neural tube becomes the baby’s brain and spinal cord and develops during the first month of pregnancy– often times before you even know you’re pregnant.
How to Choose the Best Prenatal Vitamin
We understand how overwhelming it may be when walking into your local pharmacy and staring down an aisle of prenatal vitamin options. When choosing the best prenatal vitamin, there are a few things to look for. During pregnancy, you need more folic acid and iron than usual. This is for a few reasons. Folic acid helps prevent neural tube defects, while iron supports the development of the placenta and fetus.
Other than folic acid and iron, look for a prenatal vitamin that contains calcium and vitamin D, as both are important in the development of the baby’s teeth and bones. It may also be beneficial to look for a prenatal with additional vitamins such as vitamin C, vitamin E, B vitamins, zinc, and iodine. All these vitamins play an integral role in supporting a healthy baby and pregnancy.
If you have any questions or concerns about the best prenatal vitamin for you, please contact your healthcare provider, or schedule an appointment CT Coastal OB/Gyn today.
Do Prenatal Vitamins Have Any Side Effects?
Prenatal vitamins may cause constipation, this is due to the iron in the vitamins. If you are prone to constipation or want to prevent it, here are some helpful tips:
- Include physical exercise in your daily routine. Even if it’s going for a 30 minute walk, moving your body helps. Please discuss with your healthcare provider what physical activity you can do, especially if you’re pregnant.
- Drink plenty of fluids
- Include more fiber in your diet
- If needed, ask your healthcare provider about a stool softener
Choosing the Right Prenatal Vitamin for You
When it comes to prenatal care, we’re here for you every step of the way. Finding the right prenatal vitamin is something that can easily be accomplished by scheduling an appointment with your doctor or certified nurse-midwife. We’ll help you make the right choice for you and your baby.
Every person’s experience is unique, and the care providers at CT Coastal are experts in providing services to meet the needs of each individual. Visit our pregnancy page to learn more about our practice and give us a call at 203-562-5181 to schedule an appointment with one of our providers today. With more than 5 locations throughout Connecticut, we’re here to serve you—with compassion and care.
Sources:
https://www.mercy.net/service/prenatal-care/pregnancy-vitamins-nutrients/
Leave A Comment