Prenatal Vitamins

Doctors often prescribe supplements containing specific vitamins and minerals during pregnancy, as proper nutrition supports the healthy growth and development of the baby. But what are the best vitamins for pregnancy? Why are they important for the expectant mother? And when should they be taken? Keep reading to find out the answers.

Which Prenatal Vitamin is best?

Depending on the expectant mother’s health condition and needs, doctors may prescribe specialized prenatal supplements to ensure she receives the necessary vitamins and minerals for a healthy pregnancy. These may come in the form of individual vitamins or a combination of essential nutrients in a single tablet.

At Blazma, we offer a Vitamin Test Package that includes six essential vitamin tests that your doctor may request before prescribing any vitamin supplements.

While nutritional needs can vary from woman to woman, the best Prenatal Vitamins generally include supplements containing the following nutrients:

Some prenatal vitamins also contain Vitamin B1, Vitamin B6, zinc, and choline. Doctors may also prescribe omega-3 supplements during pregnancy due to their role in reducing the risk of preterm birth and low birth weight.

Why are prenatal vitamins important?

While a healthy, balanced diet is the best way to obtain the necessary vitamins and minerals during pregnancy, expectant mothers may experience nutritional deficiencies due to symptoms like morning sickness and loss of appetite.

Taking prenatal vitamins helps fill any nutritional gaps in the diet and ensures that all the essential nutrients required to support the baby’s growth are available.

When should pregnant women start taking prenatal vitamins?

It is best for women to start taking prenatal vitamins before pregnancy. The baby’s neural tube (which later becomes the brain and spinal cord) develops during the first month, often before a woman realizes she is pregnant. In general, it’s advisable for women of childbearing age to take prenatal vitamins regularly.

Do prenatal vitamins have any side effects?

Some vitamins may worsen nausea, which many pregnant women already experience, especially those that come in large tablets. In such cases, the doctor may prescribe smaller pills in more frequent doses or recommend chewable or liquid supplements. Some supplements, especially those containing iron, may cause constipation.

Are There Vitamins That Are Harmful During Pregnancy?

The body needs only small amounts of certain vitamins, and high doses can be very dangerous. Therefore, it’s advised to avoid taking extra vitamins during pregnancy and to refrain from consuming additional doses of multivitamins. Excessive amounts of certain vitamins can harm the baby and cause birth defects.

For example, high doses of Vitamin A increase the risk of congenital disabilities, making it crucial to avoid supplements and foods rich in this vitamin, such as liver.