According to survey results found by the Foundation, women don’t know enough about when to take multivitamins, the recommended nutrients, and the amount that is needed. Many women think they are getting appropriate amounts of vitamins in the foods they eat, but research tells us that is often not the case.
Taking multivitamins are necessary and essential. It’s important for all women capable of having a baby to have adequate amounts of folic acid in their body. Most multivitamins have this amount, but check the label to be sure. When you know you are pregnant, that amount should shift to 600 micrograms (mcg) of folic acid daily. Your doctor can prescribe a prenatal vitamin, or you can get prenatal vitamins over-the-counter without a prescription. Over-the-counter and prescription prenatal vitamins often contain the same ingredients but to be sure ask your doctor about the nutrients recommended for you and your baby.
We encourage women to have open and honest dialogues with their doctors and nurses about pregnancy health and to know that they can begin to ensure a healthy pregnancy and baby even before they become pregnant.
