Prenatal vitamins are specialized supplements which provide pregnant women with the extra vitamins and minerals they need. As a general rule, pregnant women should be consuming folic acid and iodine at minimum. Some expectant mothers may also need additional supplements of the form of vitamins B12, D, and K, iron, calcium, and omega-3 fatty acids.

You can purchase prenatal vitamins without a prescription at most pharmacies. Your doctor may suggest a particular brand, or you may have the freedom to choose your own regime.

Prenatal vitamins and supplements provide the most straightforward kind of assistance for both you and your unborn child, but they cannot replace a healthy diet. Prenatal vitamins should be used in conjunction with a healthy diet and active lifestyle where possible.

What makes a great prenatal vitamin?

In addition to folic acid and iron, look for prenatal vitamins that also contain calcium and vitamin D. These vitamins support the development of the baby's teeth and bones. Finding a comprehensive prenatal vitamin that contains vitamins C, A, E, B, zinc, and iodine may also be beneficial. (1)

When should you start taking prenatal vitamins?

You can begin taking prenatal vitamins prior to falling pregnant. In fact, it can be a good idea for women of reproductive age to begin a prenatal vitamin regime if they are considering falling pregnant (2).

Prenatal vitamins can help support the healthy development of the baby’s neural tube, from which the brain and spinal cord will eventually develop. This tube grows during the first month of pregnancy (possibly before you’re even aware that you are pregnant).

What ingredients need to be in your prenatal vitamins?

1. Iron
   Absorbing additional iron is essential during pregnancy. In order to help your unborn child’s growth and development, your body will produce more blood. Ingesting at least 27 mg of iron per day can reduce the risk of iron deficiency anaemia. Iron deficiency anaemia can increase your risk of preterm delivery, low birth weight, and infant death.
2. Folic acid
   Folic acid (also known as vitamin B9) is a B vitamin that helps to prevent neural tube defects such spina bifida and anencephaly. These brain and spinal cord abnormalities start to show 28 days after conception, when many women are still unaware that they are pregnant. Folic acid supplements are frequently recommended by medical specialists to women who are trying to conceive.
3. Calcium
   Getting enough calcium can help your unborn child build healthy bones, teeth, nerves, and muscles. Of course, you also need enough to ensure that your own body can support your child. Pregnant women need about 1,000 milligrams of calcium each day, but the majority of prenatal vitamins only deliver 100 to 300 milligrams per serving. It’s best to supplement any calcium vitamins with a calcium rich diet.
4. Essential fatty acids
   Two omega-3 fatty acids, DHA and EPA, are essential for the development of the brain, nerves, and eye cells of your unborn child. Flaxseed, chia seeds, and low-mercury seafood are good sources of these nutrients, however supplements can help support a fatty acid rich diet.
5. Vitamin D
   This fat-soluble vitamin encourages the growth of baby teeth and bones. Furthermore, it maintains constant calcium and phosphorus levels. If you don't get enough vitamin D while pregnant, your child may be at risk for rickets, irregular bone formation, and delayed physical development. Two other disorders linked to vitamin D deficiency include preeclampsia and caesarean sections.

Considerations for your personal situation

While prenatal vitamins can be a useful tool for expecting mothers or women hoping to conceive, you should consult your doctor before taking any daily supplement. Your doctor can work with you to identify potential gaps in your nutrition and assist you in finding the right vitamins to support your pregnancy journey.

Here are our picks for the best prenatal vitamins in Australia:

References:

1. https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/pregnancy-week-by-week/in-depth/prenatal-vitamins/art-20046945
2. https://www.healthline.com/health/birth-control/prenatal-vitamins-and-birth-control