When you get pregnant, the first thing the doctor will prescribe is a prenatal vitamin. Pregnancy depletes the mom’s body of loads of nutrients and vitamins, and of course, those need to be replenished so that mom and baby can stay healthy and baby can grow. 

It is very important that pregnant moms also eat a healthy diet, rich in nutrients; whole grains, fruits and veggies and as few unprocessed goodies as possible (although, a few salty or sugary treats here and there is totally fine – give yourself a break, you’re pregnant!) A healthy diet, good hydration and a great pregnancy vitamin is the recipe for a healthy pregnancy – and a mum who feels great. 

When should I start taking prenatal vitamins?

If you want to start trying for a baby, you will benefit from taking a prenatal vitamin before conception. It’s generally a good idea for women of reproductive age to regularly take a prenatal vitamin. The baby’s neural tube, which becomes the brain and spinal cord, develops during the first month of pregnancy — perhaps before you even know that you’re pregnant. The Medical Society is a clinical service that offers primary health care for the whole family at affordable monthly premiums. We are passionate about the health of moms and children. Contact us to find out more.

Which vitamins are most important?

Iron and folic acid deplete fast in pregnant women. The body uses both to aid in the fetus development and stave off defects. According to Web MD;

• Folic acid is a great help in preventing neural tube defects like severe abnormalities of the fetal brain and the spinal cord. If you are planning on falling pregnant, taking it beforehand is a great foundation for a healthy pregnancy and baby.
• When it comes to iron, it supports the healthy and full development of the placenta and fetus. Iron aids the body in making blood to supply oxygen to the fetus. Iron also helps the pregnant mom prevent anaemia. Anaemia means that a patient’s blood has a low number of healthy red blood cells.

Other essential vitamins include:

Omega-3 fatty acids

These are prevalent in fatty fish. Omega-3 fatty acids help promote brain development in babies and grown-ups. If you aren’t a fan of eating fish (or maybe you just can’t stomach it now that you are pregnant – it happens) or other foods high in omega-3 fatty acids, ask your doctor to prescribe an omega-3 fatty acid supplement in addition to prenatal vitamins.

Find a prenatal vitamin that contains calcium, and vitamin D. Most prenatal vitamins can be found over the counter, so you can do some research for yourself. Vitamin D and calcium promote the development of the baby’s teeth and bones.

Prenatal vitamins also contain vitamin C, vitamin A, vitamin E, B vitamins, zinc and iodine.

Iodine

Iodine aids growth and proper development, especially in the brain. Babies get iodine from their mothers, so pregnant and breastfeeding women need to eat more iodine enriched foods. After the pregnancy, if you choose to start breastfeeding, eat foods that are high in iodine, or take an iodine tablet daily to ensure that baby is still receiving enough.

Vitamin A

Vitamin A is important for your baby’s embryonic growth. It contributes to the development of the heart, lungs, kidneys, eyes, and bones, as well as the circulatory, respiratory, and central nervous systems. 

How much vitamin A do you need?

Specifically, pregnant women should receive up to 10,000 IU vitamin A daily or up to 25,000 IU vitamin A weekly as an oral liquid, oil-based preparation of retinyl palmitate or retinyl acetate.

 Vitamin A is a must-have for women who are about to give birth. The vitamin is proven to assist with postpartum tissue repair. However, too much Vitamin A can be harmful to a growing fetus and mom. Some research suggests that having more than 1.5 mg (1,500 µg) of vitamin A a day over many years may affect your bones, making them more likely to fracture when you’re older. 

Vitamin C

The cold and flu-fighting properties of vitamin C need no introduction. Most cultures have a remedy that relies on Vitamin C for immune-boosting and relief from congestion and other symptoms. 

Including the following benefits:

• protection of the cells and keeping them healthy
• maintaining healthy skin, blood vessels, bones and cartilage
• healing wounds 

Vitamin C is an essential addition to the diet for both mom and baby during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Surprisingly, like calcium, it helps your baby’s bones and teeth develop, aids in the body’s production of collagen, and helps bolster immunity (of course). 

If you are taking iron, adding some vitamin C will help aid absorption.

Do prenatal vitamins cause side effects?

Not really. Vitamins are pretty safe, taken in the proper dosage. Sometimes the iron can cause constipation, says Mayo Clinic. Pregnancy alone can obstruct the bowel and make bowel movements more strenuous for moms, so finding ways to ease the discomfort is key. 

• Drink plenty of fluids
• Eat more high fibre foods like prunes and whole grains
• Do appropriate physical activity; check with your physician before doing any strenuous exercises.
• Find a pregnancy-safe stool-softener.

Always consult a registered healthcare practitioner for guidance before making any dietary or physical changes to your lifestyle and routine.