If you’re talking to your doctor about becoming pregnant, he or she will most likely ask if you’re taking pregnancy supplements or if you’d like a prescription for one. Pregnancy supplements, also known as prenatal vitamins, are specially formulated to support you and your growing baby.
How do pregnancy supplements work?
While it’s important to try to get the minerals and nutrients you need from food, sometimes we aren’t able to get everything we need. Women who are pregnant, breastfeeding or trying to conceive need more of certain vitamins and minerals than other people, especially folic acid. Here are 10 essential supplements women and their babies need, and why they work:
- Folic acid
Folic acid is the most important vitamin for pregnant women as it helps prevent some major birth defects of the baby’s brain and spine. - Iodine
Iodine regulates the hormones that control your metabolism, heart rate, body temperature and other core body functions. - Iron
Iron helps move oxygen from your lungs to the rest of your body—and to your baby’s. Iron can also prevent anemia, a condition that can lead to chronic fatigue, low birth weight, premature birth and maternal mortality. - Vitamin B12
B12, when combined with folic acid, can help prevent spina bifida as well as other spinal and central nervous system birth defects in your baby. - Vitamin C
Vitamin C helps your body fight infection, protects your cells from damage and helps your baby make cartilage, tendons, bones and skin. - Vitamin D
Vitamin D helps lower your risk for preeclampsia, low birth weight and preterm birth. - Calcium
Calcium helps your baby develop strong bones and teeth. It also helps him or her grow a healthy heart, nerves and muscles as well as develop normal heart rhythm and blood-clotting abilities. - Thiamine
Thiamine and riboflavin are essential vitamins that help your body produce energy. It is essential for your baby’s bone, muscle and nerve development. Thiamine is also important for your baby’s brain development. - Riboflavin
Riboflavin is also an essential vitamin that helps your body produce energy. It promotes your baby’s growth, good vision and healthy skin. - DHA
DHA, or omega-3 fatty acid, helps build your baby’s brain, nervous system and eyes. It also contributes to a higher birth weight.
To find out which pregnancy supplements are right for you, contact the experienced OB/GYNs and midwives at Adriatica Women’s Health at 972-542-8884. We’ll help you find the prenatal vitamin that meets your health needs and the needs of your baby.