Taking Prenatal Vitamins While Trying to Get Pregnant
Women trying to conceive often ask their doctors when they should begin taking prenatal vitamins. It is common for a doctor to recommend taking prenatal vitamins while trying to become pregnant for the health of both mother and child. Women often don't realize they are pregnant until several weeks into the pregnancy, so taking a prenatal vitamin before pregnancy ensures the best nutrition for the baby from the beginning.
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The Facts
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Prenatal vitamins provide an excellent source of folic acid, iron and calcium, which are all important for fetal development. Folic acid, which is present in prenatal vitamins, is especially important when trying to get pregnant. Approximately 3,000 infants are born every year with some form of neural tube defect. Taking folic acid is known to reduce these defects by up to 70 percent. The calcium and iron in prenatal vitamins helps build up minerals in your bones and oxygen in your blood to prepare your body for pregnancy.
At Risk
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Women who have a history of poor eating habits, problems with previous pregnancies, anemia or carrying more than one child are at a greater risk for health problems if they choose not to take prenatal vitamins during conception. If multiple births is common in you family history you should consider taking prenatal vitamins while trying to become pregnant since this can put a lot of strain on your body.
Misconception
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You should not use a prenatal vitamin to make up for a lack of a quality diet. As you try to conceive, be sure to eat balanced meals in addition to taking your prenatal vitamins.
Warnings
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Always speak with your doctor before making the decision to take any vitamins or minerals.
Some women find that vitamins make them nauseous. If you find that prenatal vitamins increase feelings of nausea or constipation, you should speak with your doctor about alternative options.
As with all vitamins, you should never take more prenatal vitamins than your doctor recommends (or any additional supplements) or you risk overdosing. Although vitamins are known to promote health, too much of a good thing can be dangerous. If you overdose on certain vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin A and iron, you can become very ill or even harm your fetus. Your doctor will recommend a specific dosage.
Where to Buy
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Prenatal vitamins are available by prescription or over the counter. Discuss with your doctor which is right for you.
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