One of the most important events in a woman’s life is getting pregnant. When a woman gets pregnant, the feeling of thrill and excitement is there. Hence, pregnancy is something to look forward to. But in spite of these feelings, there are still many questions that bother pregnant women like, “Is taking medicine dangerous for pregnant women?” “Does it have any side effects?” “Is it always recommended to take prenatal vitamins?”

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.

Folic acid is one of the most important prenatal vitamin a pregnant woman has to take. This vitamin,which is a member of the B family helps for a strong pregnancy and healthy fetal development. This vitamin is important is reducing the risk of birth and neural tube defects. Example of a neural tube defect is spina bifida which is the most common. It is then recommended that women should take folic acid even before pregnancy. The required folic acid intake is 200 micrograms (mcg).

In a study reported by MRC Vitamin Study Research Group in 1991, deficiencies of folic acid during pregnancy were associated with low birth weight and an increased incidence of neural tube defects. Another study in 1996 showed that folic acid significantly helps prevent neural tube defects, urinary tract and cardiovascular 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.

What is good in taking prenatal vitamins is not only in helping you when you were pregnant but also in providing 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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• Vitamin C - A Vital Role of Vitamin C for Pregnant Women
• Folic Acid: Preventing Birth Defects
• What Diet Should I Use When Pregnant?
• What Are Effective Preventions for Pregnancy Gingivitis?