Prenatal Vitamins: What to Know Before, During and After Pregnancy

Whether you’re thinking about becoming pregnant, already expecting or settling into life with your new baby, prenatal vitamins often come up as an important part of the conversation. Understandably, many parents-to-be have questions about what prenatal vitamins do, when to take them and whether they’re really necessary.

Keep reading to get answers to some of the most common questions about prenatal vitamins and how you can best support your health.

How Prenatal Vitamins Support Fertility

Prenatal vitamins aren't fertility treatments, but they can play a supportive role when you’re trying to conceive. Prenatal supplements help prepare your body for pregnancy by filling common nutritional gaps women often experience during this period, like folic acid, iron and iodine.

Having healthy levels of these nutrients supports your overall reproductive health, which may help create a healthier environment for conception. For example, folic acid supports healthy egg development, and iron helps prevent anemia, which may otherwise affect ovulation or energy levels.

Taking Prenatal Vitamins Before Pregnancy

If you're currently trying to conceive, it’s safe — and recommended — to begin taking prenatal vitamins before you're actually pregnant. Starting a prenatal vitamin at least three months before conception allows key nutrients, like folic acid, iron and iodine, to build up in your body. This helps support early fetal development beginning in the very first weeks of pregnancy, often before you even know you’re pregnant.

Because prenatal vitamins typically contain higher levels of certain nutrients than standard multivitamins, it’s important to choose one that meets your unique needs. Follow the dosage instructions exactly as recommended on the label; don't take any extras. Before starting a prenatal supplement, talking with your health care provider is a great first step. Your primary care provider or OB/GYN can help determine which prenatal vitamin is right for you, recommend when to start and tailor guidance based on your health history, diet and pregnancy plans.

Finding the Best Time of Day to Take Prenatal Vitamins

The best time to take your daily prenatal vitamin is whenever you remember, as long as you take it consistently.

Some people find it easier to start each day by taking their supplements, while others may prefer taking them in the evening, especially if their morning sickness is worse earlier in the day. Additionally, many people find it helpful to take prenatal vitamins with a meal to reduce nausea.

If your vitamin contains iron, we recommend taking it with vitamin C (like a glass of orange juice) to help you absorb it better, and avoid taking it with calcium-rich foods.

Why Prenatal Vitamins Are Recommended During Pregnancy

Prenatal vitamins are strongly recommended during pregnancy. Even people with a healthy, balanced diet can find it difficult to get enough folic acid, iron, DHA and other nutrients required to support a growing baby.

Prenatal vitamins help support:

• Baby’s brain and spinal cord development
• Increased blood volume during pregnancy
• Placental growth and fetal development

If you’re already pregnant and haven’t started prenatal vitamins yet, begin as soon as you can and talk with your health care provider about what’s right for you.

When to Stop Taking Prenatal Vitamins (and How Long to Take Prenatal Vitamins After Birth)

Many health care providers recommend continuing prenatal vitamins after birth, especially if you’re breastfeeding. Breastfeeding increases your nutritional needs, and prenatal vitamins can help support your own recovery while nourishing your baby.

Some people transition to a postnatal or standard multivitamin later on.

Your health care provider can help you decide when and how to adjust your supplement routine.

Compassionate Care for Every Step of Motherhood

From family planning to postpartum care, we're here to support you with trusted, whole-person care — body, mind and spirit. If you’re considering pregnancy or are already expecting, schedule an appointment with one of our mom and baby specialists to receive personalized guidance and support every step of the way.