Frequently Asked Questions About Prenatal Vitamins and Minerals

Prenatal vitamins and minerals are a must-have for any pregnant woman. Although the majority of vitamins and minerals needed to produce a healthy baby can easily be obtained through nutritious eating, it doesn't hurt to supplement your diet with prenatal vitamin pills. In fact, consuming certain nutrients like folic acid and iron can be a heavy chore. You would have to eat several loaves of bread to barely tap into the required amounts of 600ug of folic acid and 30mg of iron mandated for a pregnant woman.

How do I decide which prenatal vitamins to purchase?

Never assume that having a larger quantity of certain vitamins and minerals makes a prenatal vitamin pill better. In fact, over-consumption of certain vitamins can actually harm your baby instead. If you are trying to decide which prenatal vitamins to purchase, please refer to this article about prenatal vitamins by the American Pregnancy Association.. Also, keep in mind that just taking prenatal vitamins is not enough. You must still maintain a healthy diet. For maintaining a healthy diet, please refer to this pregnancy fact-sheet by the University of Ohio State.

When should I begin taking prenatal vitamins?

You should begin taking prenatal vitamins two to three months before you even get pregnant. Much of a baby's brain and major body organs begin forming within the first three months of pregnancy. In fact, neural brain development starts within the first month. Therefore, it is best to prepare in advance by getting into the habit of taking prenatal vitamin pills everyday. If you are uncomfortable with taking them before getting pregnant, then start immediately after conception. Your growing baby will need every ounce of vitamins and minerals that it can get.

When should I quit taking prenatal vitamins?

If you intend to breastfeed your child, then continue taking prenatal vitamins until you stop. Otherwise, you can stop taking prenatal vitamins the day you give birth.

Are there any potential side-effects from taking prenatal vitamins?

Sadly, yes. Many women complain of suffering from stomach pain and nausea while taking prenatal vitamins. You can either try a different brand or seek the counsel of your Doctor. Just remember to always eat something before you take your pills. It will reduce the chances of your stomach becoming upset.

What is the price of prenatal vitamins?

Prenatal vitamins range everywhere from 2 to 8 bucks a month. If you are prescribed vitamins by your Doctor, it may be more expensive, especially if you don't have insurance. Otherwise, purchasing prenatal vitamins from a grocery store is relatively cheap.