What are the most essential nutrients for pregnancy. How to choose the right prenatal vitamin supplement. Which over-the-counter prenatal vitamins are top-rated by experts. What factors should be considered when selecting a prenatal vitamin.

The Importance of Prenatal Nutrition

Proper nutrition during pregnancy is crucial for both the mother and the developing fetus. While a balanced diet should provide most essential nutrients, prenatal vitamin supplements can help fill potential gaps, especially during the challenging first trimester when nausea and food aversions are common.

Dr. Cynthia C. Gyamfi-Bannerman, an ob-gyn at NewYork-Presbyterian/Columbia University Irving Medical Center, emphasizes, “Early in pregnancy, particularly with nausea and food aversions that are common in the first trimester, a woman may not eat a balanced diet.” This underscores the importance of prenatal supplements in ensuring adequate nutrient intake.

Key Nutrients for a Healthy Pregnancy

According to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), several nutrients are particularly important before and during pregnancy:

• Folic Acid: Helps prevent neural tube defects
• Iron: Supports increased blood volume and oxygen supply to the baby
• Vitamin D: Aids in fetal bone and teeth development
• Calcium: Works with vitamin D for bone health
• B Vitamins: Support various aspects of fetal development
• Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Crucial for brain and eye development

Recommended Daily Intake

The ACOG provides specific recommendations for key nutrients:

• Folic Acid: 400 micrograms (mcg) per day
• Iron: 27 milligrams (mg) per day
• Vitamin D: 600 international units (IU) per day

Is it possible to consume too many vitamins during pregnancy? Dr. Gyamfi-Bannerman cautions, “Be sure not to take more than twice the recommended dietary allowances of certain vitamins. For example, too much iodine can lead to a fetal goiter. Too much vitamin A can be dangerous during pregnancy. More than 10,000 IU of vitamin A per day should be avoided.”

Selecting the Right Prenatal Vitamin

Choosing the right prenatal vitamin can be overwhelming given the myriad options available. What factors should you consider when selecting a prenatal supplement?

• Nutrient content: Ensure it contains the recommended amounts of essential nutrients
• Form: Consider whether you prefer tablets, capsules, or gummies
• Digestibility: Look for formulations that are easy on the stomach
• Third-party testing: Choose products that have been independently verified for quality and purity
• Additional ingredients: Be aware of any unnecessary additives or potential allergens

Top-Rated Over-the-Counter Prenatal Vitamins

Based on expert recommendations and consumer reviews, here are some highly-rated over-the-counter prenatal vitamins:

1. Innate Response Baby & Me Multivitamin

This supplement is often cited as a top choice due to its whole-food based formula and comprehensive nutrient profile. It contains folate in its active form (methylfolate), which may be more easily utilized by the body.

2. One A Day Women’s Prenatal 1

A popular choice, this supplement offers a complete nutrient profile in a single daily tablet. It includes DHA, an important omega-3 fatty acid for fetal brain development.

3. Rainbow Light Prenatal One Multivitamin

Known for its digestive support blend, this prenatal vitamin includes probiotics and enzymes to aid absorption and minimize stomach upset.

4. Garden of Life Vitamin Code Raw Prenatal

This raw, whole-food based supplement is vegetarian and contains live probiotics and enzymes. It’s formulated to be gentle on the stomach, even when taken on an empty stomach.

5. Nordic Naturals Prenatal DHA

While not a complete prenatal vitamin, this supplement is often recommended as an addition to a prenatal regimen due to its high-quality, purified fish oil source of DHA.

Understanding Nutrient Forms and Bioavailability

When evaluating prenatal vitamins, it’s important to consider not just the amount of each nutrient, but also its form. Why does this matter? The form of a nutrient can significantly impact its bioavailability – how easily it’s absorbed and utilized by the body.

Folate vs. Folic Acid

Folate is the naturally occurring form of vitamin B9, while folic acid is the synthetic form. Some women have genetic variations that make it difficult to convert folic acid to its active form. For this reason, many high-quality prenatal vitamins now include methylfolate, the active form of folate, which is more readily usable by the body.

Iron Forms

Iron can be found in prenatal vitamins in various forms, including ferrous sulfate, ferrous gluconate, and iron bisglycinate. Iron bisglycinate is often preferred as it tends to be gentler on the stomach and may be better absorbed.

Vitamin D

Vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol) is the preferred form of vitamin D in supplements, as it’s the same form produced by the body in response to sunlight and is more potent than vitamin D2.

Addressing Common Concerns with Prenatal Vitamins

While prenatal vitamins are essential for many women, they can sometimes cause discomfort or raise concerns. How can these issues be addressed?

Nausea and Stomach Upset

If prenatal vitamins cause nausea, try taking them with food or before bed. Some women find that gummy or liquid vitamins are easier to tolerate. Supplements with added ginger or vitamin B6 may also help alleviate nausea.

Constipation

Iron in prenatal vitamins can sometimes cause constipation. Staying well-hydrated and increasing fiber intake can help. If the problem persists, talk to your healthcare provider about switching to a supplement with a different form of iron.

Large Pill Size

Some prenatal vitamins can be quite large. If swallowing large pills is difficult, look for smaller tablets, soft gels, or gummy vitamins. Some brands also offer prenatal vitamins that can be taken in multiple smaller doses throughout the day.

The Role of Diet in Prenatal Nutrition

While prenatal vitamins are important, they should not be viewed as a substitute for a healthy diet. How can expectant mothers ensure they’re getting optimal nutrition from their food choices?

• Eat a variety of fruits and vegetables for essential vitamins and minerals
• Include lean proteins and legumes for iron and protein
• Consume dairy or fortified plant-based alternatives for calcium
• Choose whole grains for B vitamins and fiber
• Include fatty fish (in moderation) or plant-based sources of omega-3s like chia seeds or walnuts

A balanced diet not only provides essential nutrients but also offers benefits that supplements alone cannot, such as fiber and phytonutrients.

When to Start Taking Prenatal Vitamins

At what point should a woman begin taking prenatal vitamins? The CDC recommends that all women of reproductive age take 400 mcg of folic acid daily, as neural tube defects can occur very early in pregnancy, often before a woman knows she’s pregnant.

Ideally, women should start taking a prenatal vitamin at least one month before conception. However, if pregnancy is unplanned, starting prenatal vitamins as soon as pregnancy is confirmed is still beneficial.

Is it necessary to continue taking prenatal vitamins after giving birth? Many healthcare providers recommend continuing prenatal vitamins throughout breastfeeding, as the nutritional demands on the mother’s body remain high during this period.

Special Considerations for Prenatal Vitamins

While prenatal vitamins are generally safe and beneficial, there are some special circumstances that may require additional consideration:

Multiple Pregnancies

Women carrying twins or higher-order multiples may have increased nutritional needs. They should consult with their healthcare provider about potentially adjusting their supplement regimen.

Vegetarian or Vegan Diets

Women following plant-based diets may need to pay special attention to certain nutrients, particularly vitamin B12, iron, and DHA. Look for prenatal vitamins specifically formulated for vegetarians or vegans.

Pre-existing Medical Conditions

Certain medical conditions, such as anemia or thyroid disorders, may influence nutritional needs during pregnancy. Always consult with a healthcare provider about the most appropriate prenatal supplement in these cases.

Medication Interactions

Some medications can interact with prenatal vitamins or affect nutrient absorption. It’s important to inform your healthcare provider about all medications and supplements you’re taking.

In conclusion, selecting the right prenatal vitamin is an important step in ensuring a healthy pregnancy. By understanding the key nutrients needed, considering individual factors, and consulting with healthcare providers, expectant mothers can make informed decisions about their prenatal nutrition. Remember, prenatal vitamins are a supplement to, not a replacement for, a balanced and nutritious diet. With proper nutrition and care, expectant mothers can provide the best possible start for their developing babies.

Best Prenatal Vitamins to Buy Over the Counter

All products and services featured here are selected by Everyday Health’s commerce team and chosen for their potential to inspire and enable your wellness. Everyday Health may earn an affiliate commission on items you purchase.

Maintaining a healthy diet is always important, but it becomes even more important before and during pregnancy, as what you eat is also the source of nutrients for the baby.

Although most of your nutrients should come from the foods you eat, it is a good idea to take a prenatal vitamin supplement to fill in potential gaps. “Early in pregnancy, particularly with nausea and food aversions that are common in the first trimester, a woman may not eat a balanced diet,” says Cynthia C. Gyamfi-Bannerman, MD, ob-gyn at NewYork-Presbyterian/Columbia University Irving Medical Center. Prenatal vitamin supplements contain all the recommended daily vitamins and minerals you will need before and during your pregnancy, according to the American College of Gynecologists and Obstetricians (ACOG).

Some of the nutrients that are particularly important before and during pregnancy include folic acid, iron, and vitamin D. Folic acid helps prevent neural tube defects when taken before pregnancy and during pregnancy, according to the ACOG, and they recommend that women consume 400 micrograms (mcg) of folic acid a day.

Iron is also important as it is used to make the extra blood needed to supply oxygen to the baby. “Iron can also help to prevent maternal anemia, which is more common during pregnancy due to changes in circulating blood volume,” says Dr. Gyamfi-Bannerman. The daily recommended dose of iron during pregnancy is 27 milligrams (mg), according to the ACOG.

Vitamin D works with calcium to help the fetus’s bones and teeth develop, and the ACOG recommends women take 600 international units (IU) of vitamin D a day.

While taking prenatal supplements ensures you and your baby get the proper nutrients, it’s also important not to overdo it. “Be sure not to take more than twice the recommended dietary allowances of certain vitamins,” says Dr. Gyamfi-Bannerman.  “For example, too much iodine can lead to a fetal goiter. Too much vitamin A can be dangerous during pregnancy. More than 10,000 IU of vitamin A per day should be avoided.”

So how do you navigate the supplement aisle? Here are a few over-the-counter prenatal vitamin picks.

One A Day Women’s Prenatal 1

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The 12 Best Prenatal Vitamins of 2023

• Wellness

Our best overall pick is the Innate Response Baby & Me Multivitamin

By

Sydney Greene, MS, RDN

Sydney Greene, MS, RDN

Sydney Greene is a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist focusing on integrative, customized nutrition counseling and coaching for individuals in recovery from substance use.

Byrdie’s Editorial Guidelines

and

Christina Heiser

Christina Heiser

Christina Heiser has more than a decade of experience writing about beauty, fashion, health, fitness, and lifestyle for many online publications including Women’s Health and Everyday Health. 

Byrdie’s Editorial Guidelines

Updated on 09/30/22 02:11PM

Reviewed by

Nicole Swiner, MD

Reviewed by
Nicole Swiner, MD

Swiner is a family medicine/general medicine expert, covering a broad spectrum of both medical and mental health issues. She loves taking care of the family as a whole—from the cradle to the grave. Her interests include Minority Health, Women’s Health and Pediatrics. As a wife and mother of two, she uses real-life experiences to clearly communicate keys to better health and wellness for mind, body and spirit. She is the author of How to Avoid the Superwoman Complex.

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Whether you’re actively trying to conceive or are just beginning to think about having a baby, it is important to ensure you’re getting enough nutrients. Having optimal levels of folate, iron, calcium, vitamin D, B Vitamins and omega-3 fatty acids is critical for a baby’s development and keeping you feeling good during pregnancy. Recent studies note prenatal vitamins can have positive child and maternal health outcomes, especially when expectant moms have micronutrient deficiencies.

For this reason, even those with the best diets will benefit from incorporating a prenatal vitamin into their routines. And of course, for those with morning sickness or certain cravings, prenatal vitamins will help keep your nutrient needs covered. Some prenatal products will include important nutrients like DHA or choline, but others might not include it and may be paired with additional supplements. As always, speak with your physician about which prenatal vitamin is right for you.

To find the best prenatal vitamins on the market, we conducted hours of research to find these top picks—evaluating each on what nutrients and minerals they included and whether it was reviewed by medical experts. With expert recommendations from a registered dietitian and after considering dozens of formulas, we landed on these top-rated options.

Keep scrolling to discover the best prenatal vitamins available right now. 

Our Top Picks

Best Overall:

Innate Response Baby & Me Multivitamin at Amazon

Runner-Up, Best Overall:

Designs for Health Prenatal Pro at Amazon

Best Budget:

The Honest Company Prenatal Once Daily at Amazon

Best Drugstore:

Nature Made Prenatal Multi + DHA at Amazon

Best With DHA:

Ritual Essential Prenatal at Amazon

Best for Vegans:

Mama Bird AM/PM Prenatal at Amazon

Best Single-Serving:

One A Day Women’s Prenatal 1 at Amazon

Best for Nausea:

Garden of Life Vitamin Code Raw Prenatal at Amazon

Best Organic:

Garden of Life mykind Organics Prenatal Vitamins at Amazon

Best Organic, Runner-Up:

Movita Organics Prenatal Multivitamin at Amazon

In This Article

• Our Picks

• Final Verdict

• What to Look for in a Prenatal Vitamin

• FAQ

• Why Trust Byrdie

Amazon

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What We Like

• Tested for 125+ herbicides and pesticides

• Designed to be taken whenever and without food

• Vitamins derived from whole food sources

What We Don’t Like

• No DHA included

A whole foods-based supplement that’s free from endocrine-disrupting herbicides and pesticides? Sign us up! The Baby & Me supplement is a complete prenatal that can be used after birth as well—it’s designed to support a healthy pregnancy and developing child with methylated B vitamins, iron, and more.

Reviewers loved that they could actually see and feel the effects of taking these vitamins, whether that be their mood improving or the hair and nails growing. Many also noted that the brand was recommended by their doctor or nutritionist, so you know that it has an expert seal of approval.

However, this supplement doesn’t include DHA, so additional supplementation might be necessary.

Price at time of publish: $69 for 60 count ($0.57 per serving)

Type: tablet | Age Range: Adult 18+ | Dosage: 2 tablets/day | Certified: Glyphosate residue free, non-GMO, kosher, B-corporation

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What We Like

• Uses the most bioavailable forms of nutrients 

• Soy, gluten, and dairy-free

• Capsules are easy to swallow

What We Don’t Like

Prenatal Pro is a comprehensive formula that features high-quality nutrients. According to the brand, Designs for Health is trusted by more than 50,000 physicians so you know you’re in good hands. Featuring activated forms of vitamins and minerals, this supplement is designed for easy absorption.

Reviewers commented that these vitamins were also recommended by their primary care physician, and they noted that they felt healthier after taking them. They also loved that they didn’t make them feel nauseous like other prenatal vitamins can.

One thing to note is that the serving size for this product is four capsules, so if you have a hard time swallowing pills, this might not be an ideal choice for you.

Price at time of publish: $50 for 120 count ($0.41 per serving)

Type: Capsule | Age Range: Adult 18+ | Dosage: 4 capsules/day | Certified: Non-GMO, gluten-free

Amazon

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What We Like

What We Don’t Like

• No DHA included

The Honest Company’s Once Daily offers a balanced combination of vitamins and minerals to support the growing nutritional needs during pregnancy. Reviewed by dietitians and doctors, The Honest Company’s prenatal supplement ticks off many boxes for critical vitamins and minerals. For those who may have a hard time with digestion, this product is formulated with organic ginger, and enzymes from papaya, pineapple, and kiwi, as well as a naturally derived sweet vanilla coating (which makes taking them a bit easier). One 30-day supply is priced at less than $20—a score for your wallet without sacrificing quality. 

Price at time of publish: $20 for 30 count ($0.67 per serving)

Type: Tablet | Age Range: Adult 18+ | Dosage: 1 tablet/day | Certified: Non-GMO

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What We Like

What We Don’t Like

Luckily, you don’t have to search far and wide to find a solid prenatal. Nature Made’s Prenatal Multivitamin can be found at most drugstores and is an excellent affordable option. Each capsule contains DHA, folic acid, iron, and many other vitamins (A, B, C, D, E, and K) to ensure you get everything you need in one convenient pill.

Price at time of publish: $28 for 110 count ($0.25 per serving)

Type: Capsule | Age Range: Adult 18+ | Dosage: 1 capsule/day | Certified: USP-verified

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The Ritual Essential Prenatal Multivitamin Is Worth the Hype

What We Like

What We Don’t Like

Ritual’s Essential Prenatal features key nutrients in a delayed-release capsule for optimal absorption. We love that these vegan capsules contain nutrients like methylated folate, choline, iodine, vitamin D, and 350 milligrams of DHA. As a bonus, Ritual’s Essential Prenatal is Made Traceable™ with a visible supply chain so you know what you’re putting in your body. Ritual’s vitamins are part of a monthly subscription service, if you are not satisfied with your product there is a 30-day money-back guarantee.  

Price at time of publish: $43 for 60 count ($0.72 per serving)

Type: Capsule | Age Range: Adult 18+ | Dosage: 2 capsules/day | Certified: Non-GMO

What Our Editors Say

“I genuinely enjoyed taking these vitamins for months, which is saying a lot because I’m not a fan of swallowing pills. I love that they’re vegan because so many multivitamins out there are not friendly for people with dietary restrictions. My favorite part, though, is that they smell and taste minty fresh.” —Jessica Mahgerefteh, Commerce Editorial Director

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What We Like

• Includes 300 mg of choline

• Uses lab-certified ingredients

• Free of common allergens

What We Don’t Like

Vegans, rejoice! Mama Bird’s AM/PM Prenatal Multi+ has your back. This vegan product is made with organic herbs, probiotics, a digestive enzyme blend, methylated vitamins, chelated minerals, and 300 milligrams of choline (which can be difficult for vegans to consume, as animal products are the richest source of choline). This product is free of soy, yeast, nuts, sugars, artificial flavors, dairy, and of course, GMOs. We also love that Mama Bird opts for certification by a third-party ISO/IEC 17025 lab to support the active ingredient concentration, heavy metals concentrations, and purity.

Price at time of publish: $45 for 60 count ($0.75 per serving)

Type: Caplets | Age Range: Adult 18+ | Dosage: 2 caplets/day | Certified: Non-GMO, vegan

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What We Like

What We Don’t Like

• Lacks choline

Taking multiple tablets or supplements every day can be exhausting, which is why we like One A Day Women’s Prenatal 1 Multivitamin. One softgel provides important nutrients like folic acid, calcium, vitamin D, and iron, as well as DHA. This product is also free of artificial sweeteners, artificial flavors, wheat, and dairy. Also nice: A 90-day supply is priced at around $30, which is a steal at about $10 per month. FYI, this supplement lacks choline, so additional supplementation may be necessary.

Price at time of publish: $41 for 90 count ($0.45 per serving)

Type: Softgel | Age Range: Adult 18+ | Dosage: 1 softgel/day | Certified: N/A

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What We Like

• Capsules can be mixed with food

• Contains ingredients that support digestion

• Can be taken with or without food

What We Don’t Like

Morning sickness is no fun, and constantly feeling waves of nausea makes it extra difficult to make sure you’re eating well. Vitamin Code includes a blend of probiotics and enzymes to support healthy digestion as well as plenty of vitamins and minerals. The serving size for this product is three capsules, and while they may be taken together or throughout the day (with or without food), those who are sensitive to swallowing pills can also open the capsules and mix the contents with water or juice. DHA and choline are not included in this product so you may need to add an additional supplement.

Price at time of publish: $30 for 90 count ($0.33 per serving)

Type: Capsule | Age Range: Adult 18+ | Dosage: 3 capsule/day | Certified: Non-GMO, NSF gluten-free, B-Corporation

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What We Like

• One tablet per serving

• Contains ingredients for nausea

• Gentle on the stomach

What We Don’t Like

• Low in iron

Taking an organic prenatal isn’t necessary, but opting for organic ingredients is definitely a nice bonus. Garden of Life’s myKind Prenatal vitamin is certified organic by the USDA and its ingredients are derived from an organic food blend. Be advised, though, that this product is lower in iron than some other prenatal vitamins and doesn’t contain choline, so you may need to add other supplements. Additionally, given the lower amount of iron, this product may actually be ideal for those who struggle with constipation—however, it’s important to make sure your iron needs are met through diet by speaking with your physician. 

Price at time of publish: $40 for 30 count ($1.35 per serving)

Type: Tablet | Age Range: Adult 18+ | Dosage: 1 tablet/day | Certified: USDA organic, NSF gluten-free, vegan, kosher, non-GMO

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What We Like

• Contains prebiotics and probiotics

• Can be taken on an empty stomach

• ICS certified organic

What We Don’t Like

If you’re looking for a prenatal that can give you the necessary nutrients with all natural ingredients, you’ll love this choice from Movita Organics. They’re made with organic fruits, vegetables, and herbs, and also contain fermented ingredients to provide extra antioxidant support. Don’t worry though—they still come with everything to your baby’s development, including folic acid, iron, and zinc. These vitamins are also a great choice for vegans or those with allergies, as they’re free of meat, egg, shellfish, and nuts.

Price at time of publish: $41 for 60 count ($0.68 per serving)

Type: Capsule | Age Range: Adult 18+ | Dosage: 2 capsules/day | Certified: Non-GMO, gluten-free, vegan, organic

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What We Like

What We Don’t Like

If swallowing capsules or tablets isn’t your thing, Smarty Pants Prenatal Formula Daily Gummy Multivitamin is a great option. Its formula contains methylated folate, choline, EPA and DHA, and vitamin D. A few notes on this product: Iron and calcium are both not included, so they’ll need to be added. Also, one serving of these gummies also contains 6 grams of added sugar, so if you’ve been instructed to watch your sugar intake during pregnancy, this might not be the best option for you.

Price at time of publish: $22 for 120 count ($0.18 per serving)

Type: Gummy | Age Range: Adult 18+ | Dosage: 4 gummies/day | Certified: Non-GMO

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What We Like

• Safe for vegetarians

• Free of common allergens

• Product has undergone extensive testing

What We Don’t Like

Pure Encapsulations products are made with premium ingredients sourced from trusted suppliers and guided by their nutritional experts The brand takes extra care in testing to verify each product’s potency and purity. This product, in particular, is great for those with allergies or intolerances, as it’s free of wheat, eggs, tree nuts, peanuts, gluten, artificial colors, flavors and sweeteners, coatings and shellacs, GMOs, and unnecessary binders, fillers, and preservatives.

Price at time of publish: $48 for 120 count ($0. 40 per serving)

Type: Capsule | Age Range: Adult 18+ | Dosage: 2 capsules/day | Certified: Non-GMO, gluten-free

Final Verdict

Innate Response Formulas Baby & Me Multivitamin is our top pick for prenatal vitamins. One of a few brands that certify their products are free of glyphosate, we appreciate the focus on clean, safe ingredients. Though this product lacks DHA, it does contain many important vitamins and minerals during pregnancy so all you might need to add is a DHA supplement. We also love the more affordable The Honest Company Prenatal Once Daily, which contains the minerals needed for a healthy pregnancy, plus ginger and fruit enzymes to aid in digestion.

Meet the Expert

Dr. Malinda Lee is a board certified OB-GYN and fertility specialist at Spring Fertility’s Mountain View and Sunnyvale offices. She received her undergraduate degree from Stanford University and completed her Obstetrics & Gynecology residency through Harvard Medical School.

What to Look for in a Prenatal Vitamin

Folic acid

One of the most important ingredients to look for in a prenatal vitamin is folic acid. Folic acid is necessary for forming the baby’s neural tube and proper intake can prevent brain and spine defects. Once you start thinking about having a baby, it is important to begin taking at least 400 mcg of folic acid and increase it to 600 mcg per day once pregnant.

Other important nutrients

Vitamin D, calcium, choline, DHA, iron, and vitamin C are all super important nutrients that you want in a prenatal. Iron supports the increase in blood volume during pregnancy and DHA helps support the baby’s brain development. Do your best when shopping for a prenatal, you may have to combine supplements which is totally fine.

FAQ

• Prenatal vitamins are important regardless of whether or not you have an optimal diet. During pregnancy, your needs increase and it’s important to be properly nourished to support your own health and the health of your developing baby. Of course, supplements are meant to be an addition to an adequate diet, so it’s still important to eat consciously and as well as you’re able to during pregnancy.

• “Any time you are contemplating pregnancy or could be pregnant, start taking a prenatal vitamin once a day,” suggests Lee. “Generally, we recommend taking a prenatal starting at least one month before conception, and ideally three months [before].” 

• Prenatal vitamins should be taken daily throughout pregnancy and can even be taken postpartum. If you need additional nutrients, your doctor might recommend added supplements or increasing the frequency of consumption.

• In general, prenatal vitamins are safe. However, you should always discuss a new supplement with your physician. Some supplements may contain added ingredients like herbs or botanicals which may not be appropriate for everyone. Keep in mind, though, that simple ingredient lists are likely best during pregnancy.

• Prenatal vitamins can sometimes cause nausea and constipation due to iron, which can be hard on the stomach. “Women experiencing these side effects can try to manage these symptoms with natural remedies like ginger and lemon, plenty of hydration, over-the-counter stool softeners, or, if severe, talk to their doctor,” says Lee.

Why Trust Byrdie

As a registered dietitian, Sydney Greene takes supplement recommendations seriously. Every product has been researched and vetted by her against clinical research, product reviews, and third-party testing websites. These are products she would not only feel comfortable recommending to her clients but she would take them herself if needed.

According to our Diversity Pledge, 15% of products in our newly-published market roundups will feature Black-owned and/or Black-founded brands. At the time of publishing, we were not able to find more prenatal vitamins from Black-owned and/or Black-founded businesses. If you know of one we should consider, please email us at [email protected] and we will evaluate the product ASAP.

The 17 Best Multivitamins for Women of 2023

Article Sources

Byrdie takes every opportunity to use high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our editorial guidelines to learn more about how we keep our content accurate, reliable and trustworthy.

1. Oh C, Keats EC, Bhutta ZA. Vitamin and Mineral Supplementation During Pregnancy on Maternal, Birth, Child Health and Development Outcomes in Low- and Middle-Income Countries: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Nutrients. 2020;12(2):491. Published 2020 Feb 14. doi:10.3390/nu12020491

2. Choline. Linus Pauling Institute.

3. Zhao YS, Eweys AS, Zhang JY, et al. Fermentation Affects the Antioxidant Activity of Plant-Based Food Material through the Release and Production of Bioactive Components. Antioxidants (Basel). 2021;10(12):2004. Published 2021 Dec 16. doi:10.3390/antiox10122004

4. CDC. Folic acid. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

5. Institute of Medicine. Food and Nutrition Board. Dietary Reference Intakes: Thiamin, Riboflavin, Niacin, Vitamin B6, Folate, Vitamin B12, Pantothenic Acid, Biotin, and Choline. Washington, DC: National Academy Press

goals and benefits of 3D 4D ultrasound to detect fetal problems

Pregnancy is an important event in the life of every woman and a serious responsibility for the health and development of the unborn child long before it is born.

Every year, about 30,000 children are born in Russia with various hereditary and congenital diseases that threaten life and health. Each person is a hidden carrier of an average of 7-10 mutations in the genes that determine the development of hereditary diseases, which he can pass on to his children, being himself healthy.

The frequency of congenital and hereditary diseases in the world is 5-6%, while 95% of them are accidental. Therefore, every pregnant woman can be at risk.

At present, prenatal diagnostics (a comprehensive examination of a pregnant woman using ultrasound, biochemical and other methods) is an effective method of preventing and forming high-risk groups for congenital and chromosomal diseases in children.

Prenatal diagnosis (PD) is a part of obstetric care and makes it possible to identify most common chromosomal diseases and congenital malformations in children at the prenatal stage.

Every woman should know!

• Pregnancy must be planned!
• Folic acid should be taken early in pregnancy (vit.B 9).
• It is important to contact the Clinic and register with the antenatal clinic before 12 weeks of pregnancy (the sooner the better).
• Undertake a prenatal examination of the health of the unborn child at the recommended time – to determine the individual risk of possible developmental disorders.

PRENATAL SCREENING ALGORITHM

DURING PREGNANCY.

The established timing for early prenatal screening is 11-14 weeks of gestation.

STEP 1.

IT IS IMPORTANT TO CALCULATE THE DATE OF PREGNANCY AT THE CLINIC BY THE OBSTETRIC CALENDAR AND GET A REFERRAL FOR COMPREHENSIVE PRENATAL EXAMINATION gynecologist with your exact gestational age and get a referral for a comprehensive prenatal examination, which performed at an expert level in our clinic.

In the direction must be indicated:

Your data: first name, last name, patronymic, date of birth, weight, contact phone number

• Do you smoke or not
• Do you have diabetes
• Are you pregnant with IVF or not

STEP 2.

IMPORTANT PRENATAL DIAGNOSTICS AT 11-14 WEEKS OF PREGNANCY

On the day you contact the county prenatal diagnosis office:

• Screening ultrasound (ultrasound) is being carried out, while we note that the ultrasound doctor has access to conduct this screening and annually passes the competence exam.

• An ultrasound protocol is issued, where the main anatomical indicators of fetal development are necessarily noted, indicating the value of CTE (coccygeal-parietal size), TVP (collar space thickness), NC (nose bone) and, possibly, with an assessment of additional markers: blood flow in the venous duct and tricuspid valve, necessary to calculate the individual risk of chromosomal abnormalities.

• Simultaneously with the ultrasound, you donate blood for the determination of maternal serum markers of fetal chromosomal pathology (PAPP and b-hCG) in the treatment room of the clinic.

YOUR BREAKFAST WILL NOT AFFECT YOUR BIOCHEMICAL SCREENING

STEP 3.

THE RESULT WILL BE READY IN 1-2 DAYS FROM THE TIME OF YOUR SCREENING

• The screening result is a special form on which all your individual indicators are noted, including data Ultrasound and biochemical screening, as well as your individual risk.
• If your screening results are normal, your data will be automatically transferred to your doctor.
• In case of a high risk for possible chromosomal abnormalities in the fetus, you will be invited by the contact number you specified for medical genetic counseling and deciding whether a re-examination is necessary.

THIS IS VERY IMPORTANT FOR YOU AND YOUR CHILD! Your visit to the genetics will allow you to clarify the risk, remove or confirm the diagnosis.

STEP 4.

IF THE RESULTS OF EARLY PRENATAL SCREENING ARE NORMAL, YOU MUST FURTHER TAKE CARE OF THE HEALTH OF YOUR BABY!

You need: Mandatory ultrasound at 18–21 and 30–34 weeks of gestation at your place of observation.

CORRECT PERFORMANCE OF THE PD ALGORITHM IS THE GUARANTEE OF THE HEALTH OF YOUR FUTURE CHILD. LET’S TAKE CARE OF THIS WITH YOU TOGETHER!

To register for prenatal screening, you need to know the date of the first day of the last menstrual period to determine the optimal time for the study.

WE REMIND YOU THAT RESEARCHES ARE CARRIED OUT BY CERTIFIED ULTRASOUND SPECIALISTS ON AN EXPERT-CLASS EQUIPMENT WITH THE POSSIBILITY OF 3D/4D VISUALIZATION.

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The Role of Prenatal Vitamins and Supplements During Pregnancy

So now that you know that prenatal vitamins and supplements are essential to keeping you and your baby healthy, let’s take a look at what prenatal vitamins and supplements are made of. the supplements you need and what role these important nutrients play in maintaining a healthy pregnancy.

Folic acid: The role of folic acid in pregnancy is probably one of the most important. During the first 28 days after conception, when some women are unaware they are pregnant, your baby is at risk of developing neural tube defects. These are defects that affect the spinal cord and brain. Folic acid plays an important role in preventing neural tube defects. Folic acid also helps in the development of the placenta.

Calcium: Calcium is essential during pregnancy to keep your bones healthy. Your growing child will draw calcium from your stores, which can lead to loss of bone density. Protect your bones and make sure your child gets the calcium they need for healthy skeletal development. It also helps prevent blood clots.

Iodine: Iodine helps the thyroid gland, which is very important, especially during pregnancy. Moreover, a lack of iodine can lead to a delay in the physical development of the child, mental retardation and hearing loss. Extreme iodine deficiency can even lead to miscarriage and stillbirth.

Iron: As previously mentioned, your body needs it to carry more oxygen-rich blood to the developing fetus, and as you grow, your own body will need more oxygen. Iron helps carry oxygen to your baby and for your own needs. Iron also helps prevent anemia, low birth weight, and preterm labor.

Zinc: Zinc helps the body produce insulin, which can potentially help balance sugar metabolism.

Vitamin D: helps the body use calcium to build strong bones in both children.

Vitamin C: Vitamin C is not only needed to keep the immune system up and running (who wants to catch a cold during pregnancy?), it also protects tissues from damage and helps the body absorb iron.

Vitamin E: This vitamin is essential for muscle development and helps form red blood cells.

Vitamin A and beta-carotene: Although you have to be careful with the amount of this vitamin, it is essential for the development of bones and teeth.

Thiamine/B1: Helps maintain energy levels and recycle energy. It also helps in the development of the nervous system.

Riboflavin/B2: Helps with eye development and also supports energy levels.

Niacin/B3: Promotes healthy mom’s digestion, aids in skin and nerve development.

Pyridoxine/B6: also aids in the development of healthy red blood cells, but more importantly may relieve morning sickness.

Vitamin B12: B12 is also needed in early pregnancy to prevent neural tube defects along with folic acid. B12 is also required for DNA synthesis, which is important for uterine health.

ALWAYS CONSULT YOUR DOCTOR

The role of prenatal vitamins during pregnancy is to keep you and your unborn baby in the best possible health. However, never count on supplements to make up the bulk of your diet. Eat healthy and balanced meals before, during and after pregnancy.

To make sure you are taking the right prenatal vitamins and supplements for your needs, talk to your doctor about your concerns. Some vitamins found in regular over-the-counter multivitamins can be dangerous for a developing baby. This is why taking prenatal vitamins before conception is the best plan for a healthy pregnancy.

The role of prenatal vitamins during pregnancy is to keep you and your unborn baby in the best possible health. However, never count on supplements to make up the bulk of your diet.