What are Prenatal Vitamins for?

For an expected mother to deliver a healthy baby, she must eat nutritious foods and stay hydrated throughout her pregnancy. Moms-to-be can also take prenatal vitamins. The majority of obstetricians prescribe prenatal vitamins to their pregnant patients. Prenatal vitamins provide many of the nutrients expected moms need for their developing babies.

Growth and Development

Vitamins for pregnancy help babies grow and develop properly in the womb. An unborn baby is called a fetus. The fetus needs certain nutrients from his or her mother throughout the nine months of pregnancy. Fetuses that do not get enough nutrition and nutrients from their mothers can become affected by birth defects and health problems associated with poor nutrition.

Vitamins that help prevent birth defects include:

• Folic acid (B9): This prenatal supplement helps prevent problems with the nervous system and brain. Spinal bifida is a nerve condition that can occur if babies and moms lack this vitamin. Doctors also recommend that women who expect or want to get pregnant take folic acid. It helps ensure a healthy reproductive system.


• Vitamin A: This important nutrient helps developing fetuses and their mothers stay strong during pregnancy. It also promotes healthy bone development in both.


• Iron: Iron is typically apart of prenatal vitamins. This mineral helps red blood cells perform their duties to other organs by providing them with oxygen-rich blood. Iron increases energy levels to help pregnant women remain strong throughout the nine months. Decreased iron in the body may affect the growth and development of babies in the womb. Low birth weights and anemia are concerns of low iron content.

Although the benefits of prenatal vitamins are great, it is important that moms eat foods rich in vitamins and minerals. They can obtain all of the nutrients they need through dark green vegetables, low-fat dairy foods and delicious fruits.