Prenatal vitamins

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Prenatal vitamins are vitamins which are taken during pregnancy.

Compared to a standard multivitamin, prenatal vitamins include an increased dosage of components that are known to reduce birth defects (such as folic acid)[1], as well as an increased level of calcium[2] and iron.[3]

Some may have a reduced dosage of vitamins that could be harmful to the fetus when taken in large doses (such as Vitamin A).[4]

Many women have difficulty tolerating prenatal vitamins or experience constipation as a result of the high iron content. [5] Prenatal vitamins come in many forms including tablet, capsule, chewable, and liquid. Several vitamins contain Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) or are accompanied by a separate DHA pill.

[edit] References

  1. ^ Prenatal Vitamins. Retrieved on 2008-01-01.
  2. ^ Prenatal vitamins: OK for women who aren't pregnant? - MayoClinic.com. Retrieved on 2008-01-01.
  3. ^ Compliance with prenatal vitamins. Retrieved on 2008-01-01.
  4. ^ Vitamins and Minerals - March of Dimes. Retrieved on 2008-01-01.
  5. ^ Prenatal Vitamins:Give your baby the best start. Retrieved on 2008-04-03.
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