This archive report was first published on 30 June 2020.
Five reasons why you need to take prenatal vitamins ¶
According to doctors, the best time to start taking prenatal vitamins is months or weeks before you plan on getting pregnant. This is because they can help regulate your hormones, prepare your body for the rapid changes that are about to take place, and increase your chances of having a healthy pregnancy and delivery.
Here are five reasons why you need to take prenatal vitamins:
- They prep your body for what's to come. Taking supplements even before you're pregnant can help regulate your hormones and prepare your cervix for the changes that are about to take place.
- They prevent birth defects. The most crucial developmental milestone is the first trimester, and prenatal vitamins can help prevent neural tube defects that can lead to serious nerve and spine malformations.
- They maintain your body's nutritional supply. Even with a healthy diet, it's difficult to get all the necessary nutrients, and prenatal vitamins can help fill in the gaps.
- They ease uncomfortable pregnancy symptoms. Prenatal vitamins can help alleviate symptoms like extreme morning sickness, nausea, and vomiting, which can make it difficult to stomach healthy foods.
- They prevent mood disorders. Prenatal vitamins can help prevent prenatal depression, which affects many moms-to-be, and certain circumstances like a history of depression can predispose you to this.
Before settling on any supplements, it's essential to consult your doctor so that they can recommend the right ones for you. You should also note if you're experiencing negative side effects like headaches or bloating and talk to your doctor about your concerns.
