When should you start taking prenatal vitamins?

When should you start taking prenatal vitamins?

The ideal time to start taking prenatal vitamins is at least three months before you begin trying to conceive, though six months is even better. Here's why that matters: the neural tube closes within the first 28 days after conception, often before a missed period. Folate needs to be circulating in adequate amounts in your blood before that window opens.

According to a systematic review for the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force, folic acid supplementation before pregnancy was associated with a significant reduction in the risk of neural tube defects. 

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Why starting early matters

Research on red blood cell folate concentrations shows that it takes approximately 3 to 6 months of consistent supplementation to reach the optimal threshold associated with the lowest risk of neural tube defects.

Beyond folate, many of the nutrients in prenatal vitamins (iron, vitamin D, choline, DHA) take time to accumulate in your tissues. Starting early means you're not playing catch-up once pregnancy begins.

What if you didn't start before conception?

Start now. Whenever you find out you're pregnant, begin taking a comprehensive prenatal vitamin immediately if you haven't already. While earlier is better for neural tube protection specifically, prenatal vitamins offer benefits throughout pregnancy: supporting red blood cell production, fetal bone growth, brain development, and placental health.

No guilt, no panic. The body is remarkably adaptable, and starting prenatals at any point is better than not taking them at all.

Do you need a prescription?

Most prenatal vitamins are available over the counter, and there are excellent comprehensive, high-quality options available without a prescription, such as WeNatal for Her. Some prescription prenatals may contain higher doses of certain nutrients. Talk with your provider about which formulation is the best fit for your individual needs.

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

A note from WeNatal when to start your prenatal vitamin

WeNatal for Her was designed to be the prenatal you start before you conceive. With methylfolate, iron, choline, and vitamin D3 at evidence-based levels, it gives your body the time it needs to build real nutrient reserves. Starting early is one of the simplest things you can do to set up a healthy pregnancy, and we're here to make that step easy.

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

References

Crider KS, et al. (2023). Folic acid and the prevention of birth defects: 30 years of opportunity and controversies. Annual Review of Nutrition. DOI: 10.1146/annurev-nutr-043020-091647

Viswanathan M, et al. (2023). Folic acid supplementation to prevent neural tube defects. JAMA, 330(5):460-466. DOI: 10.1001/jama.2023.9864