12 Best Prenatal Vitamins for a Healthy Pregnancy, According to a Dietitian
Best prenatal vitamins
How we chose
Our picks
Importance of prenatals
How to choose
Bottom line
FAQs
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Between morning sickness, fleeting cravings, and random aversions, getting good nutrition during pregnancy can be tough. Plus, even if you’re eating a balanced diet, the increased nutrient demands during pregnancy are difficult to meet with diet alone.
Enter: prenatal vitamins. They’re an easy way to fill any gaps and support both your body and your baby’s growth and development.
Keep reading to see our picks of the 12 best prenatal vitamins.
A quick look at the best prenatal vitamins
Best prenatal vitamin subscription: Ritual Essential Prenatal Multivitamin
Best prenatal vitamins for vegetarians: MegaFood Baby & Me 2 Prenatal Multi
Editor’s pick of the best prenatal vitamin: FullWell Prenatal Multivitamin
Best trimester-specific prenatal vitamin: Perelel Prenatal Packs
Best prenatal supplement powder: Needed Prenatal Multi
Best prenatal vitamins with DHA: Nature Made Prenatal Multi + DHA
Best gummy prenatal vitamin: SmartyPants Prenatal Formula
Best chewable prenatal vitamin: Seeking Health Prenatal Essentials Chewable
Best prenatal vitamins for morning sickness: New Chapter Perfect Prenatal Multivitamin
Best vegan prenatal vitamins for morning sickness: Best Nest Wellness Mama Bird Prenatal Multi+
Best prenatal omega-3 supplement: Nordic Naturals Prenatal DHA
Best prenatal choline supplement: Thorne Research Phosphatidyl Choline
Design by Alyssa Kiefer
How we chose the best prenatal vitamins
Whether you’re looking for something that will stay put when morning sickness hits or you just want something that tastes good, we rounded up 12 great options to consider.
Every brand and product on our list has been vetted to ensure that it aligns with Healthline’s brand integrity standards and approach to well-being. Each product in this article:
adheres to allowable health claims and labeling requirements, per Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulations
is manufactured in facilities that adhere to current good manufacturing practices established by the FDA
is produced by a medically credible company that follows ethical, legal, and industry best standards
is made by a company that provides objective measures of trust, such as having its supplements validated by third-party labs
Additional factors we considered included:
Nutritional content. We included products that are specifically formulated to meet the nutritional demands of pregnancy.
Ingredients. We looked for supplements that are made from high quality ingredients and free of artificial additives and preservatives.
Testing. We included products that undergo testing for purity and potency, ideally by a third-party organization.
Reviews. The products listed below have mostly positive online reviews.
A note on price
General price ranges are indicated below with dollar signs ($–$$$). One dollar sign means the product is rather affordable, whereas three dollar signs indicate a higher cost.
Most of these vitamins are packaged to contain 30 servings — about a month’s worth. Some may be sold in 60- or 90-serving packages.
We based the price ratings on the approximate monthly cost for each product:
$ = under $30
$$ = $30–$40
$$$ = over $40
Healthline’s picks of the best prenatal vitamins
Best prenatal vitamin subscription
Ritual Essential Prenatal Multivitamin
Price: $$
Type: capsules
Dosage: 2 capsules per day
Included nutrients: folate, biotin, choline, iron, iodine, magnesium, boron, omega-3 DHA, and vitamins B12, D3, E, and K
Created by women for women, Ritual Essential Prenatal Multivitamin provides 12 key nutrients to help support you and your baby before, during, and after pregnancy.
Specifically, the prenatal offers more than 100% of your daily needs for folate, vitamin D, and vitamin B12. It also includes docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) omega-3 from algae, so it’s a suitable option for those following a vegan diet.
As a bonus, the lemon-scented capsules are designed to be easier on your stomach than some other supplements, so you can take them with or without food.
Just keep in mind that one serving provides only 10% of the recommended amount of choline, so it’s still important to include sources of choline, such as eggs, in your diet.
Additionally, while it does contain omega-3 DHA, it lacks eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), so it’s a good idea to take an additional EPA supplement.
Ritual vitamins are third-party tested for purity and accuracy.
Pros
third-party tested
formulated to be easy to digest
contains DHA
free of gluten and major allergens
vegan
non-GMO verified
no artificial colors or fillers
Cons
provides only 10% of recommended choline needs
low in magnesium
lacks calcium, vitamin A, and many B vitamins
doesn’t contain omega-3 EPA
Best prenatal vitamins for vegetarians
MegaFood Baby & Me 2 Prenatal Dietary Supplement
Price: $$
Type: tablets
Dosage: 2 tablets per day
Included nutrients: thiamine, riboflavin, niacin, folate, biotin, pantothenic acid, choline, iron, iodine, zinc, selenium, copper, manganese, chromium, molybdenum, and vitamins A, B6, B12, D3, E, and K
Formulated with organic, plant-based ingredients, this prenatal vitamin is designed to be easily digestible and can be taken on an empty stomach.
It also contains many key nutrients for a healthy pregnancy, including iron, choline, folate, and vitamins B6, B12, and D3.
The supplement is also certified gluten-free and doesn’t contain soy or dairy products. However, while it is vegetarian-friendly, it isn’t suitable for vegans.
Pros
nutritionally well-rounded
contains more than 50% of choline needs
certified gluten-free
third-party certified glyphosate residue-free
tested for 125+ herbicides and pesticides
Cons
lacks magnesium and omega-3 DHA and EPA
contains only 600 IU of vitamin D
not vegan-friendly
Editor’s pick of the best prenatal
FullWell Prenatal Multivitamin
Price: $$$
Type: capsules
Dosage: 8 capsules per day
Included nutrients: thiamine, riboflavin, niacin, folate, biotin, pantothenic acid, choline, calcium, iodine, magnesium, zinc, selenium, copper, manganese, chromium, molybdenum, potassium, inositol, betaine HCL, and vitamins A, B6, B12, C, D3, E, and K
FullWell Prenatal Multivitamin was designed by dietitian and fertility expert Ayla Barmmer.
It’s considered one of the highest quality prenatals on the market and is the top overall pick of both Jillian Kubala, MS, RD, and Healthline editor Kelli McGrane, MS, RD.
Each serving covers 55% of recommended choline needs and provides 4,000 IU of vitamin D per dose. It also includes folate — or folic acid — in the form of methylfolate, which is a more absorbable form of the nutrient.
It doesn’t contain iron, but this may be a positive aspect for some because iron intake and needs differ from person to person during pregnancy. Also keep in mind that the product should be combined with a DHA and EPA supplement.
Each batch undergoes independent third-party testing for harmful contaminants, including heavy metals.
FullWell Prenatal Multivitamin is highly rated, with customers mentioning how easy it is to digest. Several also note that they’ve noticed increased energy levels since switching to this product.
Pros
third-party tested
certificate of analysis (COA) available upon request
high in choline, magnesium, and vitamin D
uses chelated minerals for optimal absorption
easy to digest
no artificial colors or fillers
Cons
doesn’t contain iron (though this may be a positive for some)
should be paired with an omega-3 supplement containing DHA and EPA
requires a dosage of 8 capsules per day
Best trimester-specific prenatal vitamin
Perelel Prenatal Packs
Price: $$$
Type: capsules
Dosage: 1 pack per day, with food
Included nutrients: thiamine, riboflavin, niacin, folate, pantothenic acid, choline, iron, iodine, magnesium, zinc, selenium, copper, chromium, boron, omega-3 DHA, omega-3 EPA, and vitamins A, B6, B12, D3, E, and K. Some packs also contain probiotics and calcium.
Perelel is a subscription service that delivers prenatal supplements tailored to the trimester of pregnancy you’re currently in.
For example, the First Trimester Prenatal Support Pack contains extra folate, as well as added B6 and ginger to combat nausea.
The company was founded by an OB-GYN, and each product is free of artificial additives and third-party tested for accuracy and purity.
Just keep in mind that the First Trimester pack includes five capsules, which may be difficult to tolerate if you have morning sickness.
Pros
third-party tested
customized based on stage of pregnancy
contains DHA and EPA
Cons
expensive
provides only 22% of recommended choline needs
multiple capsules may be difficult to tolerate, especially during the first trimester
Best prenatal supplement powder
Needed Prenatal Multi
Price: $$$
Type: powder
Dosage: 1 scoop (13.2 grams) per day
Included nutrients: carbs, fat, thiamine, riboflavin, niacin, folate, biotin, pantothenic acid, choline, calcium, iodine, magnesium, zinc, selenium, copper, manganese, chromium, molybdenum, sodium, potassium, mixed tocopherols, and vitamins A, B6, B12, C, D3, E, and K
Needed Prenatal Multi is an excellent prenatal multinutrient supplement that provides 4,000 IU of vitamin D and covers 88% of your choline needs during pregnancy. Women need 450 mg of choline per day during pregnancy (1Trusted Source).
The powder can be added to smoothies or lattes, so it’s a smart choice for people who can’t swallow pills or who get nauseated when taking multiple supplements per day. But it comes in a capsule form as well.
To use the powder, simply mix one scoop into your food or beverage of choice.
While the powder doesn’t include omega-3s, Needed also offers prenatal omega-3 capsules designed specifically for those who are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Pros
third-party tested
high in choline and vitamin D
option to subscribe or make a one-time purchase
powder form may be easier for some people to use
Cons
doesn’t contain iron (may be a positive for some)
one of the most expensive prenatals on the market
requires separate omega-3 supplement
Best prenatal vitamins with DHA
Nature Made Prenatal Multi + DHA
Price: $
Type: softgels
Dosage: 1 softgel per day
Included nutrients: thiamine, riboflavin, niacin, folate, biotin, pantothenic acid, calcium, iron, iodine, magnesium, zinc, omega-3 DHA, omega-3 EPA, and vitamins A, B6, B12, D3, E, and K
This liquid softgel multivitamin combines DHA with folate, iron, and other essential nutrients to help you meet the nutritional demands of pregnancy.
Nature Made Prenatal Multi + DHA is third-party tested by U.S. Pharmacopeia (USP) and has more than 33,000 mostly 5-star reviews online.
Plus, it’s one of the most affordable and easiest-to-find options on our list.
Pros
contains DHA and EPA
affordable
USP-verified
Cons
doesn’t contain choline
contains only 1,000 IU of vitamin D
Best gummy prenatal vitamins
SmartyPants Prenatal Formula
Price: $
Type: gummies
Dosage: 4 gummies per day
Included nutrients: thiamine, riboflavin, niacin, folate, biotin, choline, iodine, zinc, selenium, sodium, inositol, omega-3 DHA, omega-3 EPA, and vitamins A, B6, B12, D3, E, K1, and K2
SmartyPants is a popular and easy-to-find supplement brand that offers a great option if you prefer gummy vitamins.
Specifically, the prenatal supplement features the omega-3s EPA and DHA, along with other important nutrients such as folate and B12.
Like most other gummies, this one doesn’t contain iron, which some people may prefer. Just be sure to ask your doctor for a recommendation for an iron supplement if needed.
Keep in mind that a serving of 4 gummies contains 6 grams, or 1 1/2 teaspoons, of added sugar. Therefore, the supplement might not be the best choice for people trying to manage their blood sugar levels, such as those with gestational diabetes.
Pros
contains EPA and DHA
easy to eat
third-party tested
Cons
high in added sugar (6 grams per serving)
low in choline
lacks certain nutrients, such as magnesium
Best chewable prenatal vitamins
Seeking Health Prenatal Essentials Chewable
Price: $$
Type: chewable tablets
Dosage: 2 tablets per day
Included nutrients: thiamine, riboflavin, niacin, folate, biotin, pantothenic acid, calcium, iodine, magnesium, zinc, selenium, copper, manganese, chromium, molybdenum, betaine anhydrous, milk thistle extract, coenzyme Q10, zeaxanthin, boron, and vitamins A, B6, B12, D3, E, and K
Seeking Health Prenatal Essentials Chewables provide nutrients to support pregnancy in a chewable form. They’re a great option if you have trouble swallowing pills.
They also contain zero added sugars and are free of gluten, artificial colors and flavors, and common allergens such as peanuts and soy.
Pros
third-party tested
free of major allergens
easy to consume
Cons
lacks choline and omega-3 EPA and DHA
Best prenatal vitamins for morning sickness
New Chapter Perfect Prenatal Multivitamin
Price: $
Type: tablets
Dosage: 3 tablets per day
Included nutrients: thiamine, riboflavin, niacin, folate, biotin, pantothenic acid, calcium, iron, iodine, magnesium, zinc, selenium, copper, manganese, chromium, molybdenum, and vitamins A, B6, B12, D3, E, and K
New Chapter Perfect Prenatal Multivitamin contains 100% of your daily iron needs but is designed to be gentle on your stomach.
The supplement also contains ginger, which may help ease queasiness.
This product is made from all non-GMO ingredients and is both kosher and vegetarian-friendly.
Pros
NSF-certified
added ginger may be helpful for nausea
Cons
doesn’t contain choline
lacks omega-3 DHA and EPA
requires 3 pills per day
Best vegan prenatal vitamin for morning sickness
Best Nest Wellness Mama Bird Prenatal Multi+
Price: $$
Type: caplets
Dosage: 1 caplet per day
Included nutrients: thiamine, riboflavin, niacin, folate, biotin, pantothenic acid, choline, calcium, iron, iodine, magnesium, zinc, selenium, copper, manganese, chromium, molybdenum, enzyme blend, probiotics, and vitamins A, B6, B12, C, D3, E, and K
Featuring probiotics, organic ginger root, organic chamomile, and an enzyme blend, this vegan prenatal multivitamin is designed to be easy on your stomach.
In fact, multiple reviewers mention that it’s the only prenatal they could stomach during bouts of morning sickness.
Best Nest Wellness Mama Bird Prenatal Multi+ includes methylated forms of certain vitamins, including folate and B12, for better absorption. It’s also vegan-friendly and free of artificial colors and flavors, GMO ingredients, and major allergens, including gluten (2Trusted Source, 3Trusted Source).
One thing to note is it lacks omega-3 DHA and EPA. However, the company offers a bundle package that includes the prenatal multivitamin along with prenatal DHA, EPA, and probiotic supplements.
As one serving provides just 67% of recommended vitamin D, you may also want to add the company’s vegan vitamin D3 drops to your order.
While Mama Bird Prenatal Multi+ isn’t third-party tested, the company assures customers that all of its products are rigorously tested multiple times to ensure safety, quality, and purity.
Pros
vegan-friendly
free of gluten and major allergens
easy on the stomach
includes methylated forms of some nutrients
Cons
not third-party tested
lacks omega-3 DHA and EPA
low in vitamin D
low in choline
Best prenatal omega-3 supplement
Nordic Naturals Prenatal DHA
Price: $
Type: softgels
Dosage: 2 softgels per day
Included nutrients: EPA, DHA, other omega-3s, and vitamin D3
If your prenatal vitamin doesn’t cover your omega-3 needs during pregnancy, then you’ll want to purchase a separate omega-3 supplement like this one from Nordic Naturals.
During pregnancy, it’s recommended that women take in optimal amounts of omega-3 fats, including DHA. Omega-3s are essential for fetal brain and neuron development (4Trusted Source, 5Trusted Source).
Even though current recommendations state that pregnant women should increase their daily DHA intake by 200 mg, some experts suggest that higher amounts may be necessary to maintain optimal blood levels of omega-3s during pregnancy (5Trusted Source).
Nordic Naturals Prenatal DHA provides 480 mg of DHA along with 205 mg of EPA, another omega-3 fat that’s essential to fetal development. The supplement also contains a small amount of vitamin D, another critical nutrient during pregnancy.
Keep in mind that this supplement isn’t vegan-friendly. However, Nordic Naturals offers a vegan prenatal DHA made with algal oil.
Nordic Naturals products are third-party tested for purity and potency, and customers can request a COA for all Nordic Naturals supplements on the company’s website.
Pros
contains DHA and EPA
includes 400 IU of vitamin D
third-party tested
Cons
not appropriate for vegans
Best prenatal choline supplement
Thorne Research Phosphatidyl Choline
Price: $
Type: gelcaps
Dosage: 1 gelcap per day
Included nutrients: choline
Choline is a nutrient that’s incredibly important during pregnancy and breastfeeding because it’s essential to fetal growth and development. However, many prenatal vitamins are missing or low in this key nutrient (1Trusted Source, 6Trusted Source).
If your prenatal contains a small amount of choline or none at all, consider taking a choline supplement such as this one from Thorne Research.
Thorne Research Phosphatidyl Choline covers 93% of choline needs during pregnancy in the form of phosphatidyl choline, the type of choline found in foods.
Thorne’s manufacturing facilities are third-party audited by NSF International, an organization that independently tests supplements for quality and potency and inspects manufacturing facilities.
Thorne also has an “A” rating from the Therapeutic Goods Association (TGA), a regulatory agency run by the Australian Department of Health. Thorne products undergo four rounds of testing at in-house laboratories.
Pros
covers 93% of choline needs during pregnancy
gluten-free
certified by NSF and TGA
Cons
not appropriate for vegans
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A comparison of the best prenatal vitamins
Having trouble deciding which prenatal is right for you? Here’s a quick look at how our top picks compare:
Price range Good for Daily dose Third-party tested Vegan Gluten-free Omega-3 Choline (% of the DV) Vitamin D3 (% of the DV)
Best Nest Mama Bird Prenatal $$ people with morning sickness 1 caplet no yes yes no 9% 67%
FullWell Prenatal $$$ general pre- and postnatal health 8 capsules yes yes no no 55% 667%
MegaFood Baby & Me 2 $$ whole-food ingredients 2 tablets no no yes no 55% 100%
Nature Made Prenatal Multi + DHA $ people on a tight budget 1 softgel yes no yes yes, DHA and EPA 0% 167%
Needed Prenatal $$$ people who prefer a powder supplement 1 pack yes no yes no 100% 667%
New Chapter Perfect Prenatal $ people with morning sickness 3 tablets yes no yes no 0% 167%
Nordic Naturals Prenatal DHA $ people who need additional omega-3s 2 softgels yes no yes yes, DHA and EPA 0% 67%
Perelel Prenatal Packs* $$$ trimester-specific prenatals 1 pack yes no yes yes, DHA and EPA 22% 333%
Ritual Essential Prenatal $$ bridging nutrient gaps in an otherwise balanced diet 2 capsules yes yes yes yes, DHA 10% 333%
Seeking Health Chewable $$ people who prefer chewable tablets 2 tablets yes no yes no 0% 167%
SmartyPants Prenatal $ people who prefer gummy vitamins 4 gummies yes no yes yes, DHA and EPA 10% 200%
Thorne Research Phosphatidyl Choline $ people who need additional choline 1 gelcap in-house tesing no yes no 93% 0%
*First Trimester pack includes an additional folate supplement, which offers 278% of the DV for pregnant and breastfeeding people.
Still searching for the right vitamins and supplements?
Let us help. We compile evidence-driven reviews and brand comparisons of top vitamins and supplements so you can meet your health goals.
Why should you take a prenatal vitamin?
During pregnancy, your needs for vitamins, minerals, and trace elements increase significantly in order to support your health and the health and growth of the developing fetus (7Trusted Source).
For example, folate needs increase by 50% and iron needs increase by 150% (8Trusted Source, 9Trusted Source).
These and many other nutrients are essential for fetal and placental growth and the general health of the pregnant person, which is why they’re needed in larger amounts during pregnancy.
Taking a prenatal vitamin that contains all the nutrients needed to support a healthy pregnancy can help reduce the risk of deficiencies and ensure you’re getting the vitamins and minerals you need to keep yourself and your baby healthy.
In fact, most experts recommend taking a prenatal supplement for at least 3 months before becoming pregnant to ensure adequate stores of key nutrients, such as folate.
Other nutrients to look for in a prenatal vitamin include iodine, vitamin D, choline, B vitamins, and calcium. It can also be a good idea to choose a product with omega-3 fatty acids (7Trusted Source).
How to choose the best prenatal vitamin for you
If you have pregnancy complications or other health concerns, your doctor might recommend a prescription prenatal supplement. Otherwise, you can find over-the-counter supplements at your local pharmacy or online.
While many products are available, you’ll want to choose a prenatal supplement that includes all the vitamins and minerals needed to support a healthy pregnancy.
Important nutrients in a prenatal vitamin
When shopping for a prenatal, there are a few things that you should look for.
A well-rounded prenatal should include a variety of nutrients that are in high demand during pregnancy, such as:
B vitamins. Your body needs eight different B vitamins. During pregnancy, your needs for these nutrients increase. Most prenatal supplements include all eight B vitamins, but some include only a few. At a minimum, a prenatal should include B12, folate, and B6 (7Trusted Source).
Choline. Choline needs increase significantly during pregnancy because choline plays an important role in placental and fetal development and the health of the pregnant person. Research suggests up to 95% of pregnant women don’t consume enough choline. A well-designed prenatal should cover at least some of your choline needs (1Trusted Source).
DHA and (EPA). You need more of these fatty acids during pregnancy because they’re important for fetal brain development. Some prenatals contain them, but most don’t. Most pregnant people take a separate DHA and EPA supplement, like a fish oil or algal oil supplement (4Trusted Source, 5Trusted Source).
Vitamin D. Although the current recommended vitamin D intake during pregnancy is 600 IU — the same as for people who aren’t pregnant — needs during pregnancy are estimated to be much higher, at about 4,000 IU per day. Most prenatals contain much less, so you may need an extra vitamin D supplement (10Trusted Source, 11Trusted Source, 12Trusted Source).
Minerals, including magnesium, iodine, and zinc. Needs for certain minerals, such as magnesium, calcium, zinc, and iodine, increase during pregnancy, so a good prenatal will cover some of these. Keep in mind that supplemental iron needs can vary from person to person, so iron should ideally be supplemented separately based on iron levels (7Trusted Source, 13Trusted Source).
Vitamins A and C. Vitamin A is necessary for fetal eye and organ development, immune system function, and more. Vitamin C is necessary for fetal and maternal health, and maintaining optimal levels could help reduce your risk of complications such as preeclampsia and preterm birth (14Trusted Source, 15Trusted Source).
These are just some of the nutrients that are in higher demand during pregnancy. A well-rounded prenatal will provide the additional nutrients your body needs during pregnancy, but it should be used as a supplement to, rather than a replacement for, a balanced diet.
In addition to taking a prenatal supplement, following a nutrient-rich diet that provides the appropriate amount of calories and micronutrients that are in high demand during pregnancy can support your health and decrease the risk of certain pregnancy-related complications.
Nutrients often missing in prenatal supplements
Most prenatals contain all or most of the micronutrients needed during pregnancy.
However, many prenatals fall short in a few areas, which is why it’s important to do your research before purchasing a prenatal supplement.
In particular, prenatal supplements are often lacking in choline, DHA, EPA, and vitamin D, even though it is important to get enough of these nutrients during pregnancy (1Trusted Source, 5Trusted Source, 10Trusted Source, 16Trusted Source).
Since each pregnancy is unique, your doctor or a registered dietitian may suggest a specific prenatal supplement based on your health needs.
Keep in mind
While prenatal supplements can certainly help fill gaps in your diet, they’re not a one-way ticket to superhuman health throughout your pregnancy.
It’s important to read nutrition labels and balance your intake of vitamins and minerals with a well-rounded, nutrient-rich diet.
A dietitian who specializes in nutrition during pregnancy can help you design a diet based on your preferences and specific health needs.
The bottom line
Taking a prenatal supplement is recommended for all pregnant people. A well-rounded prenatal supplement can help you meet your nutrient needs before, during, and after pregnancy.
The prenatal products listed above are trusted by experts and can help ensure you’re getting the recommended amount of nutrients to keep you and your little one healthy.
Frequently asked questions
Why are prenatal vitamins important?
During pregnancy, the need for micronutrients increases significantly. Health experts recommend taking a prenatal supplement before, during, and after pregnancy in order to meet your nutrient needs.
When should I start taking prenatal vitamins?
The best time to begin taking prenatal vitamins is before you conceive. Supplementing with folate — which is found in prenatal vitamins — before conception significantly reduces the chances of neural tube irregularities such as spina bifida (7Trusted Source).
A baby’s neural tube, which will develop into both the brain and the spinal cord, develops during the first month of pregnancy. That could happen before you even realize you’re pregnant.
For this reason, experts recommend taking a prenatal supplement containing folate for at least 3 months before becoming pregnant (7Trusted Source).
If you aren’t already taking a daily prenatal vitamin, start taking one as soon as you find out you’re expecting. You’ll continue taking your prenatal vitamin every day during your pregnancy.
Experts also recommend continuing to take a prenatal supplement after you give birth.
This is because your body needs extra nutrients to support healing after delivery and requires more nutrients during breastfeeding. In fact, needs for many nutrients are even higher during breastfeeding than during pregnancy.
Do prenatal vitamins have any side effects?
Some people may feel nauseated after taking prenatal vitamins. If you’re having difficulty tolerating your prenatal, your doctor may recommend a different form of prenatal nutrients, such as a powder or chewable supplement.
Taking your prenatal vitamins with food or in the evening may be helpful if you’re experiencing bouts of morning sickness.
You may also experience constipation, especially if you’re taking a prenatal vitamin with large amounts of iron.
Be sure to drink lots of water and increase the fiber in your diet. You’ll also want to get regular exercise. Ask your doctor for advice if constipation becomes an issue.
Is it OK to take prenatal vitamins if you are not pregnant?
Yes, it’s OK to take prenatal supplements if you’re not pregnant. In fact, experts recommend taking prenatal supplements for at least 3 months before becoming pregnant.
They also recommend continuing to take a prenatal supplement after you’ve given birth, though there are several products on the market specifically designed for the postnatal period.
Do prenatal vitamins help you get pregnant?
Research shows that prenatal supplements have a beneficial impact on fertility, including increasing the chance of becoming pregnant and decreasing the time it takes to become pregnant (17Trusted Source).
What’s more, nutrient deficiencies can impact your ability to conceive and have a healthy pregnancy.
For example, deficiencies in vitamin D, vitamin B12, and folate can impact your ability to become pregnant (17Trusted Source, 18Trusted Source, 19Trusted Source, 20Trusted Source).
Additionally, supplementing with a well-rounded prenatal that includes methylated folate and B12 may improve the effectiveness of assisted reproductive technology treatment (21Trusted Source).
Are prenatal vitamins FDA-approved?
While it sets strict standards for the labeling of supplements, the FDA doesn’t regulate supplements the same way that it does medications (22Trusted Source).
This means that the FDA doesn’t oversee the actual production and ingredients of prenatal vitamins.
This is why it’s best to choose a product that has been third-party tested to ensure that your prenatal vitamin contains the types and amounts of ingredients that it claims to on the label.
Are prescribed prenatals better than store-bought ones?
While prescription prenatals are available, they aren’t necessarily better than prenatal vitamins that you can purchase over the counter.
In fact, there are several high quality prenatal supplements that don’t require a prescription. However, one of the benefits of having a prescription prenatal is that your insurance may cover some or all of the cost.
Regardless of whether you opt for an over-the-counter or prescribed prenatal, what’s most important is that you choose a supplement that’s formulated to meet the unique nutritional demands of pregnancy.
best prenatal vitamins with dha?
