What do prenatal vitamins do for you and your baby?

What do prenatal vitamins do for you and your baby?

Prenatal vitamins provide targeted nutritional support during one of the most physically demanding periods of your life. They fill the gaps between what you eat and what your body (and your baby's body) actually needs.

RELATED: How to choose a prenatal vitamin 

For you

Prenatal vitamins help prevent iron deficiency anemia, which can leave you exhausted and increase the risk of preterm delivery. They supply vitamin D for bone health and calcium regulation. B vitamins support your energy metabolism and help with pregnancy-related nausea (B6 in particular).

For your baby

Folate protects against neural tube defects. Iron ensures adequate oxygen delivery through the placenta. DHA supports brain and eye development. Iodine supports thyroid function, which influences fetal brain development. Choline contributes to neural tube formation and cognitive development.

The evidence

A comprehensive review of over 200 studies found that suboptimal vitamin intake during the preconception and pregnancy periods is linked to a wide range of complications for both parent and child.

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

A note from WeNatal on what prenatal vitamins do for you and your baby

WeNatal for Her was designed to deliver real nutritional support where the science says it matters most: methylfolate for neural tube protection, chelated iron for blood health, DHA for brain development, and choline for cognitive growth. It's one of the simplest, most evidence-backed things you can do for your pregnancy.

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