Break the news on the thought of conceiving or being pregnant and you are likely to start getting a list of foods to eat, foods not to eat as well as a list of ‘must take’ multi-vitamins which will keep you energetic and strong during pregnancy. It’s true that most of these suggestions are given to pregnant women out of goodwill and concern by friends and loved ones. However, we often tend to forget that the anatomy of each woman and their bodily response towards prenatal vitamins is individualistic. For some women, certain vitamins do not work well and add to their morning sickness, making them nauseous.

If you are considering prenatal vitamins during pregnancy, it is a good decision and you must consult your doctor for the same. But before you do that, we have come up with a list of some frequently asked questions answered by our expert gynaecologists which might provide you with some insights on the dos and don’ts of consuming prenatal vitamins.

Why Should I take prenatal vitamins?

During pregnancy, your average diet might not work as it may not fulfil your nutrition and calorie requirements. Which means, your body might miss out on some vital nutrients necessary for the baby’s growth and development. By taking prenatal vitamins, you can get nutrients that have been missing from your diet and fulfil the much-needed nutrition requirements during pregnancy.

What should I look for while choosing prenatal vitamins and why?

Pregnant women need nutrients like additional calcium, iron, folate, Vitamin A, B-complex, C, D and omega fish oil. As mentioned above, these minerals, anti-oxidants and nutrients obtained from prenatal vitamins can help with the development of bone, spine, brain and red blood cells of a foetus. Make sure that these ingredients are a part of your prenatal vitamins when you go for buying them.

What is the difference between absorption rates in pills vs chewable tablets and liquids when it comes to prenatal vitamins?

Several pregnant women ask if they can consume chewable tablets or syrup for better absorption of minerals, vitamins and antioxidants. It is okay to take vitamins in any form as they have a little effect on the absorption. However, the vitamin should be taken separately from iron and calcium as these minerals affect the absorption of other nutrients. It is important to know that the absorption of the prenatal vitamin occurs in the stomach irrespective of its form.

Do I need to take a Prenatal Vitamin if I am on a healthy diet?

Well, the best way to get all the necessary vitamins, antioxidants and minerals is always through a well-balanced and colourful diet. However, multivitamin or prenatal tablets have the potential to fill the nutritional gaps and meet with your daily requirements. This stands true for both; pregnant women and the ones about to get pregnant.

Are there any side-effects to prenatal vitamin consumption? If yes, what are they?

Gastrointestinal issues often occur as a side effect to prenatal vitamin consumption as they are high in iron, minerals and vitamins. It is advisable to consume these as prescribed by your doctor or under their supervision as some of them can cause nausea, constipation or diarrhoea.

When should I start taking prenatal vitamins?

Prenatal vitamins need to be taken 3 or 4 months before conceiving. Having tablets with additional omega 3 fish oil helps with the healthy development of the visual system and brain of the foetus. Vitamin D supplements are also recommended if there’s a deficiency.

Do I need to continue taking vitamins after my baby is born? If yes, for how long?

No, you shouldn’t stop taking vitamins once your baby is born. In fact, as you are breastfeeding, your body needs more minerals and vitamins than you would during pregnancy. When you continue taking vitamins along with omega fish 3 oil and extra vitamin D, it provides your little one with all the vital nutrients it needs.

We hope that we answered all or most of your queries on the intake of prenatal vitamins. If you have any other questions about them apart from the ones mentioned above, feel free to get in touch with us and we would be more than happy to help you.

*Information shared here is for general purpose Please take doctors’ advice before taking any decision.