Prenatal Vitamins and Pregnancy: Here’s what you need to know

Maria Elisa Diaz, registered dietitian and diabetes educator at Texas Children’s Pavilion for Women, shares recommendations for women who are considering prenatal vitamins.   

Prenatal vitamins are daily supplements that contain nutrients and minerals to support healthy fetal development. Most doctors recommend prenatal vitamins for women who are pregnant or trying to conceive, as well as women who have recently given birth and are still lactating. Below, Maria Elisa Diaz, a registered dietitian and diabetes educator at Texas Children’s Pavilion for Women, shares recommendations and warnings for women who are considering prenatal vitamins.   

Why are prenatal vitamins recommended during pregnancy?

“Your body needs higher amounts of certain nutrients to support a growing pregnancy,” said Diaz. “For example, you will need more folic acid and iron, and a prenatal vitamin will help ensure you get the right amounts.”

Certain vitamins become extremely important during pregnancy because they help a fetus grow and develop and reduce the risk of problems with the baby’s development, especially during the early weeks. Folic acid decreases the chance that a baby will be born with spina bifida, and iron is essential to prevent anemia and make sure expectant mothers have enough blood and oxygen for the growing baby. These are just a few examples. Higher doses of other vitamins might be important for some women, depending on personal health history and nutritional needs.           

When should you take prenatal vitamins?

Healthcare providers typically recommend taking prenatal vitamins if there’s any chance you might get pregnant, says Diaz. “Ideally, start taking prenatal vitamins before trying to conceive. Of course, not all pregnancies are expected, but it’s ok to start taking them as soon as you know you’re pregnant.”

Furthermore, it's recommended that you continue taking your prenatal vitamins during the postpartum period and when you’re breastfeeding. “Continue taking the prenatal vitamins that you were taking during pregnancy,” says Diaz.

What are the specific vitamins to look for in a prenatal vitamin?

• Iron
• Folic acid
• Vitamin D
• Calcium
• Magnesium
• DHA
• Choline
• Iodine

How to choose your prenatal vitamins?

There are many different brands of prenatal vitamins to choose from, says Diaz. “Always try to find one that has been third-party tested. Remember, vitamins and supplements are not FDA-regulated. So you want to make sure that what’s advertised on the label is actually in the vitamin.”

If you have additional questions or concerns about the specific prenatal vitamin you should be taking, it’s a good idea to consult with your OBGYN or primary care physician. “Depending on your nutritional needs, your doctor may even recommend additional supplementation,” says Diaz.

What are some precautions and considerations?

It’s important to note, however, that prenatal vitamins are meant to supplement a healthy diet, not replace it. “Nutrients such as vitamins and minerals are best absorbed through foods,” added Diaz. “So it’s always important to maintain a healthy, well-balanced diet that includes whole grains, fruits, vegetables, healthy fats and lean proteins — in addition to prenatal vitamins. In other words, while helpful, prenatal vitamins are not a substitute for healthy eating.” 

And always talk with your doctor about what’s right for you, the potential risks and benefits, appropriate dosages and possible interactions with other medications or any conditions you may have. 

“Don’t make these decisions alone,” says Diaz.

Dr. Helen Dunnington, an obstetrician at Texas Children’s Pavilion for Women and assistant professor in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology at Baylor College of Medicine, explains here why vitamins and supplements belong in the “medications” conversation with your doctor.  

Learn more about Texas Children’s Pavilion for Women and the Maternal Fetal Medicine Center.