Important Prenatal Vitamins to Take: Folic Acid, Iron and Vitamin A

“Is it always recommended to take prenatal vitamins?” “Is taking medicine dangerous for pregnant women?” “Does it have any side effects?” These are some of the questions that bother pregnant women today. To note, pregnancy is one of the most significant events that a woman has to experience in her life. Not to mention of course, the thrill and excitement it brings.

Many experts found out that women who are taking prenatal vitamins are healthier. It also was found to have the same effect on the unborn child. And if you are thinking that eating the right kinds of foods will suffice, think twice.

Aside from eating the right kind of foods, fertility experts suggest that pregnant women should take prenatal vitamins. This does not replace the nutrients but instead, supplements them.

One very important prenatal vitamin necessary for pregnant women to take is folic acid. Folic acid, which is part of the vitamin B family is critical for a strong pregnancy and healthy fetal development. This vitamin is not only intended for pregnant women who are less healthy during pregnancy but it also holds true even for healthy pregnant women. Folic acid is known to reduce the risk of birth defects like spina bifida, neural tube defects and other birth defects like congenital heart conditions. Spina bifida is the most common neural tube defect. These congenital abnormalities can be a major problem for the family and is also a threat to a child’s life. Women therefore,should take an abundant quantity of folic acid not only when one becomes pregnant, but also during the time when you are already preparing yourself for pregnancy. To note, some doctors advise pregnant women to take 200 micrograms (mcg)of folic acid or also known as folate everyday.

Two separate studies in 1991 and 1996 found out that folic acid can help prevent neural tube defects, urinary tract and cardiovascular defects. Deficiency folic acid will lead to low birth weight and increased incidence of neural tube defects.

Another necessary prenatal vitamin is iron. Iron is the main component of hemoglobin which is the part of the blood that carries oxygen. Thus, iron is important in the transportation of oxygen in the body of the pregnant woman and that of the unborn child. Iron enhances the baby’s healthy growth and helps the mother maintain a healthy body as she gives birth to a baby.

There are many things Vitamin A can do. First, it can help in developing the embryo,cells and tissues. Second, it fights infections and repair damaged tissues. Third, it can also help in lactation which is done during breastfeeding. Lastly, it develops other parts of the body such as the eyes, heart, skin and mucous membranes. These are the reasons why Vitamin A is essential for pregnant women.

Indeed, the intake of prenatal vitamins helps a woman not only during the stage of pregnancy but also after giving birth. And the best thing about it is that you have also provided a healthy life to your child.

Natasha Marryat runs the Why Can’t I Get Pregnant blog where she blogs about pregnancy issues. Hop over to her blog to learn more about trying to get pregnant.

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