Do Prenatal Vitamins Help You Get Pregnant – Essential Vitamins to Take
Pregnancy is one of the most important events a woman has to go through. In fact, when a woman gets pregnant, it is always viewed as something which is exciting and thrilling. In short, it is something that is always looked forward to. But in spite of the thrill and excitement, one cannot help but ask oneself, “Is taking medicine dangerous for pregnant women?” “Is it always recommended to take prenatal vitamins?” “Does it have any side effects?”
Is eating the right kinds of foods already enough for a pregnant woman? Think twice. Experts discovered that pregnant women taking prenatal vitamins are healthier and that also includes their child.
Taking prenatal vitamins does not replace the nutrients but they instead supplement the nutrients present in the body. Fertility experts advised that women should not only eat the right kinds of foods but also to take prenatal vitamins.
Many doctors advised women to take at least 200 micrograms (mcg) of folic acid or folate to reduce the risk of having birth defects, neural tube defects and other congenital conditions during pregnancy. One of the most common defect is spina bifida. Prenatal vitamins in indeed necessary since acquiring birth defects can be a problem within the family.
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.
Vitamin A is another must-be prenatal vitamin for pregnant women. It is important in the development of one’s embryo, cells and tissues. Further, it also develops our eyes, heart, skin and other mucous membranes. It also helps fight infections and repair damaged tissues. It can also aid during breastfeeding.
Thus, intake of prenatal vitamins is truly essential for women not only during pregnancy but onwards. And what’s best about it is knowing that you have also imparted 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.
