WeNatal FAQs: When to start prenatals, fertility tips, and supplement advice for both partners

When should women start taking prenatal vitamins?

According to ACOG, women should start taking a prenatal vitamin like WeNatal for Her before trying to conceive. WeNatal's clinical nutritionists recommend starting at least three to six months before getting pregnant, as this timeframe supports optimal egg quality, hormone balance, and nutrient stores for pregnancy. However, in many cases, it’s beneficial to start even earlier, sometimes six to 12 months in advance, especially as nearly half of all pregnancies are unplanned. But know that it's never too late to start taking WeNatal. 

Starting early is particularly helpful for women who are not actively preventing pregnancy, are transitioning off hormonal birth control, have irregular cycles or hormonal imbalances, or want to optimize their fertility and overall reproductive health. Key nutrients like methylated folate are critical in the earliest days of pregnancy, which is often before a woman even knows she’s pregnant. Having these nutrients already in place can support healthy fetal development from the very beginning.

When should men start taking a prenatal vitamin?

Men should ideally start taking WeNatal for Him at least three months (90 days) before trying to conceive. This is because sperm take approximately 70 to 90 days to fully develop, so the quality of sperm today reflects the lifestyle, nutrition, and environmental exposures from about three months ago. Taking a high-quality male prenatal during this time can significantly improve sperm count, motility, morphology, and DNA integrity. 

WeNatal for Him contains key nutrients such as antioxidants (vitamin C, E, and CoQ10), zinc, selenium, methylated folate and B12, and vitamin D—all of which play critical roles in supporting testosterone levels and overall sperm health. These nutrients also help protect sperm from oxidative stress and reduce DNA fragmentation, which is associated with miscarriage and implantation issues. For best results, men should continue taking WeNatal for Him throughout the trying-to-conceive journey.

RELATED: The ultimate preconception guide: What to do when you’re ready to get pregnant 

Should I keep taking my prenatal vitamins in postpartum?

Yes. ACOG recommends continuing to take your prenatal vitamins while breastfeeding to support your body with extra nutrients. These additional vitamins and minerals may also help your body heal from birth. WeNatal's clinical nutritionists generally recommend continuing to take your prenatal through two years postpartum, after which point it's appropriate to transition off a prenatal vitamin and onto a high-quality women’s multivitamin. However, there are a few considerations that may influence this decision. Some women choose to continue a prenatal longer if they plan to conceive again within the next 6–12 months, are experiencing lingering nutrient depletion (such as fatigue, hair thinning, or irregular cycles), or have ongoing needs for nutrients like iron, B12, or vitamin D. 

Prenatals typically offer higher levels of folate, iron, iodine, and choline, which are nutrients that continue to support energy, hormone balance, and recovery, even outside of pregnancy. If none of these apply to you, a women’s multivitamin with methylated B vitamins and appropriate levels of iron is usually a great next step. Ultimately, choosing to stay on or transition from a prenatal should be based on your current health status, nutrient needs, and family planning goals so we encourage you to work with your provider to determine when it is best for you to transition from your WeNatal for Her. 

RELATED: The fourth trimester: Why prenatal vitamins still matter after birth

How can I improve the absorption of my prenatal vitamin?

• Take your prenatal vitamin with a meal containing healthy fats (like avocado, olive oil, or nuts).

• Try to stay consistent with taking your prenatal, as your body absorbs nutrients better over time when given daily.

• Consider dividing the dosage by taking 2 capsules with breakfast and 1 capsule with lunch, or divide all 3 capsules between meals. 

Dividing doses is especially helpful, as your body can only absorb a certain amount of vitamins and minerals at a time, especially for water-soluble vitamins like B vitamins and vitamin C, and minerals like magnesium and iron. If you take a large dose all at once, anything beyond what your body can immediately use may either be lost (especially for water-soluble nutrients) or cause digestive upset (like nausea).

Does WeNatal use food-based or synthetic vitamins and minerals?

WeNatal uses a highly researched blend of nutrient forms that are considered bioavailable, or easier for your body to digest and use right away. That's why you'll see active forms of folate and B12, known as methylated vitamins (like methylfolate and methylcobalamin). WeNatal also includes what's known as chelated minerals, which are minerals that are attached to an amino acid to help with transport in the digestive system in an effort to maximize absorption and effectiveness. While taking a prenatal vitamin is not a substitute for a nutrient-dense diet, our goal is to mimic the best of food-sourced nutrition, using clinically validated nutrient forms, to help you cover any potential gaps.

Are WeNatal products tested for heavy metals?

Yes. Every batch of WeNatal products is third-party tested through an accredited laboratory for heavy metals, microbial contamination, and potency to ensure purity, safety, and quality.

Are WeNatal supplements kosher-certified?

Yes! WeNatal for Her, WeNatal for Him, and Egg Quality+ are now officially certified kosher by EarthKosher, one of the most respected kosher certifying agencies worldwide.
This milestone reflects our commitment to transparency, quality, and community which are values deeply rooted in our founders’ Jewish heritage. Kosher certification means our supplements meet strict standards for ingredient sourcing, manufacturing, and oversight, offering an added layer of trust for both the kosher-observant community and anyone seeking thoughtfully made, high-quality prenatal supplements. 

What does research say about optimal vitamin A supplementation in prenatal vitamins?

WeNatal’s vitamin A levels are based on current research on optimal prenatal micronutrient support, including the comprehensive review published in Maternal Health, Neonatology and Perinatology (2022). That review supports a balanced approach of providing both preformed vitamin A and mixed carotenoids during pregnancy.

WeNatal uses a research-supported combination:

• 1,200 mcg RAE of preformed vitamin A (retinyl palmitate)

• 1,000 mcg RAE of mixed carotenoids

This balanced approach helps ensure adequate vitamin A status during pregnancy while remaining well below established safety limits.

Some individuals do not efficiently convert carotenoids into active vitamin A, which is why carotenoids alone may not be sufficient. Including both forms supports healthy development while maintaining a strong margin of safety.

We simply recommend being mindful of highly concentrated sources of preformed vitamin A, such as liver or cod liver oil. Occasional small portions (about 2–3 oz once or twice per month) are generally fine, but large or frequent servings should be avoided. Everyday foods like eggs, dairy, and colorful vegetables do not pose a toxicity risk when consumed as part of a normal diet.

Vitamin A is one of those nutrients that’s incredibly important in pregnancy, but also one that requires balance. Research shows that vitamin A plays a critical role in early fetal development, including the formation of the heart, lungs, kidneys, eyes, and immune system. There are two primary types found in supplements and food:

• Preformed vitamin A (retinol, retinyl palmitate, retinyl acetate) which are readily usable by the body
  
  

• Provitamin A carotenoids (like beta-carotene) which are converted by the body as needed

The concern arises with high intakes of preformed vitamin A. Research has shown that consistently exceeding 10,000 IU (3,000 mcg RAE) per day from preformed sources may increase the risk of birth defects, particularly in early pregnancy. 

A well-formulated prenatal aims to:

• Provide enough vitamin A to meet daily needs

• Stay safely below the established upper limit

• Leave room for vitamin A from whole foods like eggs, dairy, and vegetables

• Avoid pushing total intake into potentially excessive ranges

This is also why caution is advised when combining prenatals with beef liver or desiccated liver supplements (see below), which are extremely concentrated sources of preformed vitamin A.

Can I take beef liver or beef liver capsules with WeNatal for Her?

This is a great question, especially since vitamin A is an important but potentially risky nutrient to overdo in pregnancy.

WeNatal for Her contains 1,210 mcg RAE (4,033 IU) of preformed vitamin A (as retinyl palmitate), which is about 55% of the tolerable upper intake level for pregnancy (3,000 mcg RAE or 10,000 IU).

Beef liver is extremely rich in preformed vitamin A. For reference:

• 1 oz of beef liver contains approximately 1,540 mcg RAE (or 5,100 IU) of preformed vitamin A
  
  

• Most desiccated beef liver supplements are dosed to match ~1 oz of fresh liver, delivering around 5,000 IU per serving
  
  

When you combine this with the amount in WeNatal, there is potential to exceed the recommended daily upper limit, which could increase the risk of vitamin A toxicity, especially during pregnancy, when high doses of preformed vitamin A are associated with birth defects.

For non-pregnant and breastfeeding women, the upper limit ranges from 2,800 to 3,000 mcg/day (roughly 9,300–10,000 IU), so the caution still applies. Vitamin A toxicity (hypervitaminosis A) can occur when too much preformed vitamin A (from supplements or animal sources like liver) is consumed over time. In non-pregnant individuals, it may lead to symptoms like headaches, dizziness, nausea, joint pain, dry skin, and liver damage. 

WeNatal's clinical nutritionists don't recommend taking beef liver supplements daily (at least at full dose) while using WeNatal for Her, whether you're pregnant or not. If you'd like to include liver for its nutritional benefits, it's safest to limit intake to 1–2 oz per week or take desiccated liver no more than 1–2 times weekly, to avoid long-term vitamin A overload.

Why are the levels of vitamin B and folate so high?

• Optimal levels of B vitamins and methylated folate are critical for preconception, pregnancy, and general health 

• Higher amounts of B vitamins may support DNA synthesis, methylation, energy production, hormonal balance, and fetal neural development

• We prioritize bioavailable forms at research-backed doses to support these vital functions, and to support nutritional gaps for common deficiencies

• The ability to absorb B-vitamins, especially B12, can vary widely due to things like the health of a person's gut. WeNatal's doctor-formulated supplements keep  dosages within a safe limit, but provide higher levels to meet most everyone's needs alongside the increasing demands of B vitamins throughout pregnancy

RELATED: The impact of methylation on fertility and pregnancy: Why B vitamin form matters

Why do my WeNatal supplements have variations in appearance? 

Color variation is natural and expected because WeNatal uses high-quality, active ingredients without artificial colors, coatings, or preservatives. Slight color shifts can happen across batches or over time. This does not impact the quality, safety, or effectiveness.

RELATED: Why do supplements change color? The truth about clean prenatal & fertility vitamins 

What if my prenatal or supplements feel hard on my stomach? 

Some women experience mild nausea or stomach sensitivity when starting a prenatal, especially one as comprehensive as WeNatal for Her. The formula includes high-quality, bioavailable forms of iron, B vitamins, and minerals, which can occasionally feel a bit strong for sensitive stomachs at first.

Here are a few tips that often help:

• Take it with food — ideally with a meal containing healthy fats and protein.
  
  

• Split your dose — space the capsules out with one at breakfast, one at lunch, and one with dinner to ease digestion.
  
  

• Avoid taking it on an empty stomach or only with coffee/tea, which can worsen nausea.
  
  

• Stay hydrated — a full glass of water helps minimize stomach upset.
  
  

Most people find their body adjusts within a week or two. If discomfort continues, try adjusting timing or pairing with a different meal and reach out to our team for additional guidance. We’re here to help you feel your best while getting the nutrients you need.

Can I pair my WeNatal prenatal vitamins with a small snack or does it need to be a meal?

You don’t necessarily need a full meal to take your WeNatal for Her or Him, but pairing it with a substantial snack that contains fat and protein can help improve absorption and reduce the risk of nausea. WeNatal for Her contains iron and fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, and K), - which means it is best if taken WITH food.  Remember, nausea can also be caused by going too long without eating, so have a well-balanced snack if a meal is not available when needed.

Here are some balanced ideas with protein, fiber, and healthy fats to help you feel good and make the most of your WeNatal prenatals:

Substantial, whole-food-based snack ideas

• Handful of almonds + ½ cup of berries: Protein and fat from nuts, fiber and carbs from the berries
  
  

• Avocado on whole-grain crackers: Healthy fats and fiber from avocado, whole grains for sustained energy
  
  

• Hard-boiled egg + baby carrots or apple slices: Protein and fat from the egg, fiber from veggies or fruit
  
  

• Greek yogurt with chia seeds and berries: Protein from yogurt, fiber from chia and berries, healthy fat from chia
  
  

• Smoothie with protein powder, spinach, frozen berries, and flaxseed: Easy on the stomach and nutrient-rich

Are there any foods I shouldn't take my prenatals with?

• Avoid taking your prenatal vitamins with high-calcium meals (like dishes rich in dairy) to protect iron and magnesium absorption. Minerals can sometimes compete for absorption when taken together.
  
  

• Limit coffee or black tea intake close to when you take your vitamins (wait about 30 minutes if possible) as the tannins in these beverages can interfere with mineral absorption. 

Is it OK to take women's prenatal vitamins if you are not pregnant or trying to conceive?

WeNatal for Her is designed to optimize health before, during, and after pregnancy, and it can also be an excellent women’s multivitamin for those wanting to support hormone health, energy, and cellular function, even if you're not actively trying to conceive. We highly recommend discussing this with your provider to provide more personalized recommendations based on your individual needs. 

Is it OK to take male prenatal vitamins if you are not trying to conceive?

WeNatal for Him was formulated to optimize sperm quality, motility, and DNA integrity, as well as provides a powerful foundation for overall men’s health. With key nutrients that support energy, mental clarity, and cellular health, WeNatal for Him is a male prenatal vitamin that's  designed to boost men's overall health. We recommend discussing with your practitioner to provide more personalized recommendations based on your individual needs. 

Is it OK to take Omega DHA+ if you are not pregnant or trying to conceive?

Omega DHA+ was thoughtfully formulated with fertility and pregnancy in mind, including an ideal DHA-to-EPA ratio to support brain development and cellular health, however, its benefits go far beyond that. Daily use of omega-3 fatty acids like DHA can help lower inflammation, support hormone balance, and promote heart, brain, and skin health. It’s a powerful addition to any wellness routine, whether you’re trying to conceive or simply optimizing your long-term health.

Is it OK to take Egg Quality+ if you are not trying to conceive?

While Egg Quality+ is designed to support women preparing for pregnancy by optimizing mitochondrial function and egg health, the nutrients it contains (CoQ10, NAC, ALA, L-Carnitine, and PQQ) also support cellular energy, detoxification, and hormone balance. It's a great option for women focused on overall reproductive wellness, longevity, or simply supporting healthy aging, whether or not you're actively trying to conceive.

Is it OK to take Rest + Digest Magnesium if you are not pregnant or trying to conceive?

Rest + Digest Magnesium was formulated to support relaxation, recovery, sleep quality, relieve constipation, and nervous system regulation, benefits that are valuable for everyone. Whether you're managing stress, supporting muscle recovery, or improving sleep, this gentle, highly absorbable magnesium blend can be a powerful part of your daily wellness routine with or without pregnancy in mind.

When might a prenatal vitamin with iron not be recommended?

While prenatal vitamins with iron are essential for many people,  especially those who are pregnant, trying to conceive, or have known iron deficiency, there are certain situations where taking a prenatal with iron may not be ideal.

You may not need, or may even be advised to avoid, extra iron if:

• You are not menstruating.
  If you are postmenopausal, have had a hysterectomy, or are using certain forms of birth control that stop your period, your body loses significantly less iron. Without regular blood loss, iron needs are lower, and unnecessary supplementation could lead to iron accumulation over time.
  
  

• You have an iron-overload condition.
  Conditions such as hemochromatosis or other iron storage disorders cause the body to absorb and store too much iron, which can damage organs like the liver, heart, and pancreas. In these cases, additional iron from supplements is usually harmful.
  
  

• You have certain chronic conditions.
  People with some forms of liver disease, chronic kidney disease (without anemia), or active infections may need to avoid unnecessary iron, as it can worsen disease progression or fuel infections.
  
  

Does WeNatal offer an iron-free formula?

WeNatal for Her includes iron (18 mg per serving) to support women’s iron needs, especially surrounding menstruation, preconception, and pregnancy. An iron-free formula is not currently available in capsule form.

Is WeNatal Protein + for Her iron-free?

Yes! WeNatal Protein + is an iron-free option.

Our newest product is a thoughtfully formulated 3-in-1 blend of whey protein, collagen, and targeted prenatal nutrients designed to support women in preconception, pregnancy, postpartum, and beyond.

Unlike WeNatal Protein + for Her does not contain iron. This makes it a great option for:

• Women who are already meeting their iron needs through diet or a separate supplement

• Those who are sensitive to iron or experience digestive discomfort

• Postmenopausal women or women who are not menstruating and may not require additional iron

• Anyone looking for a high-quality prenatal-supportive protein powder without added iron

Protein + was designed to help fill common nutrient gaps while also supporting daily protein intake, which is essential for hormone production, blood sugar balance, muscle recovery, and fetal growth during pregnancy.

With high-quality whey protein for muscle and metabolic support, collagen peptides for skin, joint, and connective tissue health, and added prenatal-supportive nutrients, Protein + offers a versatile way to nourish your body, whether you're trying to conceive or simply focused on optimizing overall wellness.

Why do I see orange flecks in my Protein + after mixing?

You may notice small orange or golden flecks when blending WeNatal Protein + into a smoothie and that’s completely normal.

These flecks come from the added vitamins and minerals in the formula, particularly nutrients like beta-carotene (a form of vitamin A) and other naturally pigmented compounds. Because we prioritize high-quality, bioavailable ingredients without artificial colors, fillers, or heavy processing, some of these nutrients may not fully dissolve or may appear as tiny specks once mixed.

This is simply a visual reflection of the real, active ingredients inside, not a sign of anything wrong with the product.

RELATED: Why protein matters for fertility, pregnancy, and postpartum recovery

Why doesn’t WeNatal for Her include calcium?

Calcium can interfere with the absorption of key minerals like iron and magnesium when combined in the same supplement. Because calcium needs do not significantly change during pregnancy and are often better met through diet, we intentionally left it out of WeNatal for Her to prioritize the increased need for iron. 

We prioritized nutrients that are more difficult to get through food and more commonly deficient, especially iron, which is crucial in pregnancy. Iron needs nearly double during pregnancy, to support increased blood volume and oxygen delivery to both mom and baby. We found that many women were needing to add iron separately, especially in the third trimester. Our goal was to create a comprehensive prenatal that minimizes the need for extra supplements and so including a bioavailable, gentle form of iron was a top priority.

If you're concerned about your calcium intake, consider prioritizing calcium-rich foods such as whole-milk dairy, leafy greens, soybeans, and nuts, or taking a separate calcium supplement at least 2 hours away from taking your prenatal with iron.

Why doesn’t WeNatal for Her contain Omega-3s? 

Omega-3 fatty acids, especially DHA, are incredibly important for fertility, pregnancy, and postpartum health. So why keep them separate from the prenatal? There are a few intentional reasons.

• Stability & freshness matter.
  Omega-3s are delicate fats and when they are exposed to heat, light, or oxygen, they can oxidize (go rancid). Oxidized oils not only lose potency but can also create unpleasant smells, tastes, and digestive discomfort.
  
  When omega-3s are blended directly into a multi-nutrient prenatal capsule alongside minerals like iron, the risk of oxidation increases over time. Keeping them separate helps protect the integrity, freshness, and effectiveness of both formulas.
  
  

• Better dosing flexibility.

Not everyone needs the same amount of omega-3s. Some women already consume fatty fish regularly, while others may need higher therapeutic doses for inflammation, mood support, or fertility optimization.

By offering Omega DHA+ as a separate supplement, you can adjust your intake based on your unique needs without altering your prenatal dose.

Separating Omega DHA+ from WeNatal for Her allows us to protect quality, preserve freshness, and give you flexibility, while still supporting optimal fertility and pregnancy nutrition.

Does WeNatal for Her help support hormone health?

WeNatal for Her formulation supports hormone health by supplying key nutrients like methylated B vitamins, magnesium, zinc, and antioxidants. Providing methylated B vitamins to support healthy methylation, a key process for hormone detoxification and regulation. Supporting adrenal health and energy with nutrients like magnesium, vitamin C, and zinc, which are critical for hormone production and stress response. Inositol improves insulin sensitivity to support stable blood sugar, which is directly tied to balanced estrogen, progesterone, and cortisol levels. Optimal levels of antioxidants (like vitamins A, C, E, and selenium) help to reduce oxidative stress that can disrupt hormone function. While it’s not a direct hormone therapy, it builds the strong foundation your body needs for natural hormone balance before, during, and after pregnancy.

Will prenatal vitamins affect my period?

Starting a prenatal vitamin like WeNatal for Her can contribute to some temporary changes to your menstrual cycle, especially in the first couple of months. Prenatal vitamins contain a blend of nutrients like iron, B vitamins (especially B6 and B12), folate, and vitamin D that can subtly influence hormones and overall cycle regularity. Some reasons your cycle might change include:

• Hormonal regulation: Increased levels of B vitamins and minerals like zinc and magnesium can support hormone production, potentially shifting your cycle.
  
  

• Adjustment phase: Your body may take time to adjust to new nutrient levels, especially if you had deficiencies before.
  
  

• Iron and heavy bleeding: Iron and vitamin C can affect bleeding patterns. Some women see lighter periods, others heavier, depending on their baseline status.

Give it at least 3 full cycles (about 3 months) to allow your body to regulate. If your cycles are still very irregular or symptoms worsen, it could be a sign of something else going on hormonally (like thyroid issues, perimenopause, or PCOS) and it's worth bringing it up with your practitioner.