Do Prenatal Vitamins Help You Conceive?

Many people believe that taking a prenatal vitamin before you are pregnant can help you conceive quicker. Is there any truth to this theory, or is it nothing more than just an old wife's tale? Here are some of the things that all women who are trying to conceive should know about taking prenatal vitamins prior to conception.

Do Prenatal Vitamins Increase Fertility?

The theory that prenatal vitamins can increase fertility when they are taken before you conceive is nothing more than a common misconception. There is no research which suggests that you will become pregnant quicker simply by taking your prenatal vitamins. Monitoring ovulation, eating healthy, exercising, reducing stress levels, and talking to your doctor if you experience any difficulties becoming pregnant are still the best things that you can do.

Should You Take Prenatal Vitamins Before Conception?

Although prenatal vitamins cannot help you become pregnant quicker, there are still good reasons to take them prior to conception. It's important to make sure that you are getting adequate amounts of folic acid, which may not be found in multivitamins. When folic acid is taken during conception, it can reduce the risk of neural tube defects, according to the American Pregnancy Association.

A study, which lasted from 2003 to 2009, also found that taking prenatal vitamins prior to conception can reduce the risk of autism. When women took prenatal vitamins three months before conception and one month after they became pregnant, they were less likely to have children with autism. Women who did not take prenatal vitamins were 60% more likely to have an autistic child, according to WebMD.

What if Prenatal Vitamins Make You Nauseous?

Many women find that prenatal vitamins make them nauseous, especially after they have already conceived. If this is a problem for you, there are several things that you can do. For starters, avoid taking your vitamins on an empty stomach. Taking them with a light meal or crackers can help prevent nausea. Some may even find it easier to take vitamins later in the day. If nausea persists, consider sipping ginger tea or chewing on a peppermint candy to settle your stomach. Talk to your doctor if you continue to experience nausea or have a hard time keeping your prenatal vitamins down during pregnancy.

Taking prenatal vitamins prior to conception doesn't increase fertility, but it does help ensure that you have a healthier baby. If you are trying to become pregnant or are at risk of becoming pregnant, it's important to talk to your doctor about your daily vitamin requirements. Getting into the routine of taking prenatal vitamins prior to conception will also help to ensure that you remember to take them throughout pregnancy.

Disclaimer: This article is intended for educational purposes only. Anyone who has questions about their health should be sure to talk to a licensed health care professional.

Sources:
American Pregnancy Association
Mayo Clinic
WebMD