What are prenatal vitamins?

What are prenatal vitamins?

Prenatal vitamins are dietary supplements formulated to provide the specific vitamins and minerals that support a healthy pregnancy. They are designed to fill nutritional gaps and deliver targeted nutrients that are critical for fetal development, particularly during the crucial first trimester when organ systems are forming.

A standard prenatal vitamin typically includes folate, iron, calcium, vitamin D, iodine, choline, and a range of B vitamins. The exact composition varies between brands and formulations, which is why choosing the right one matters.

RELATED: How to choose a prenatal vitamin

How are they different from regular multivitamins?

The key differences come down to dose and focus. Prenatals typically contain higher amounts of folate and iron compared to standard multivitamins. Folate supports neural tube development in the first weeks of pregnancy, while iron helps to support the additional blood volume needed to supply oxygen to the placenta and growing baby.

Many prenatals also include DHA or offer it as a companion supplement, which standard multivitamins often don't. Choline, another nutrient increasingly recognized as important for pregnancy, is now included in some prenatal formulas, though many still leave it out or provide it at levels far below the recommended 450 mg combined daily intake.

A 2022 review examined 188 prenatal supplements on the U.S. market and found significant variability in nutrient content, with many products falling short of evidence-based recommendations.

Who should take them?

Prenatal vitamins are recommended for anyone who is pregnant, trying to become pregnant, or breastfeeding. The United States Preventive Service Task Force (USPSTF) gives a priority recommendation for folate supplementation for all people planning or capable of pregnancy as it is so crucial particularly in the few weeks of pregnancy.

Health and fertility experts recommend taking a prenatal supplement prior to conception, throughout pregnancy, and continuing through lactation. This is because nutrient needs are especially high during this time, and it is difficult for most to meet these nutrient needs through diet alone.

RELATED: Essential nutrients for fertility, pregnancy, postpartum, and breastfeeding

A note from WeNatal on what are prenatal vitamins

Not all prenatals are created equal, and the research backs that up. WeNatal for Her was thoughtfully formulated with the gaps in mind: 1350 mcg of methylfolate, 400 mg of choline, 4000 IU of vitamin D3, and 18 mg of Ferrochel® iron bisglycinate, all in three capsules per day. If you've been comparing labels and feeling overwhelmed, start with a prenatal built on science.

RELATED: Can men take prenatal vitamins? What to know about male prenatal nutrition

References

Adams JB, et al. (2022). Evidence based recommendations for an optimal prenatal supplement. Maternal Health, Neonatology and Perinatology, 8:4. DOI: 10.1186/s40748-022-00139-9

Barry MJ, et al. (2023). USPSTF reaffirmation recommendation statement on folic acid. JAMA, 330(5):454-459. DOI: 10.1001/jama.2023.12876