Common Questions About Prenatal Vitamins — Answered by Our OB/GYNs

At Burlington OBGYN Associates, we know that pregnancy comes with many questions — especially when it comes to nutrition and prenatal vitamins. Whether you’re trying to conceive, newly pregnant, or well into your second trimester, getting the right nutrients is essential for both your health and your baby’s development.

Here are answers to some of the most common questions our OB/GYNs receive about prenatal vitamins.

1. Why are prenatal vitamins important?

Prenatal vitamins are specially formulated to support a healthy pregnancy. They provide essential nutrients that may be difficult to get in sufficient amounts through diet alone — even with a balanced, healthy eating plan.

Key benefits include:

Supporting the baby’s brain and spinal development (with folic acid)
Promoting healthy bone growth (thanks to calcium and vitamin D)

Reducing the risk of anemia (iron)

Aiding in immune function and cell growth (vitamin C, zinc, B vitamins)

2. When should I start taking prenatal vitamins?

Ideally, you should start taking prenatal vitamins at least one month before conception. Neural tube development occurs very early in pregnancy — often before you even realize you’re pregnant — which is why early supplementation with folic acid is critical.

If you’re already pregnant and haven’t started yet, don’t worry. It’s never too late to start benefiting from prenatal support.

3. What should I look for in a prenatal vitamin?

Every woman’s needs are slightly different, but we generally recommend looking for a prenatal that includes:

Folic Acid – at least 400 to 800 mcg

Iron – 27 mg

Calcium – 200-300 mg (though more may come from your diet)

Vitamin D – 400 to 800 IU

Iodine – 150 mcg

DHA or Omega-3s – for fetal brain and eye development

Some patients may need higher or lower doses of certain nutrients based on lab results, preexisting conditions, or dietary restrictions — which is why personalized guidance from your OB/GYN is so important.

4. Can prenatal vitamins cause nausea or constipation?

Yes, some women experience nausea, constipation

Taking your vitamin with food

Switching to a different brand or formulation (such as a gummy or liquid)

Taking your vitamin at night instead of in the morning

Don’t stop taking your vitamins without checking in with us — we can usually help you find one that works better for you.

5. Do I still need to eat a healthy diet if I’m taking a prenatal?

Absolutely. Prenatal vitamins are meant to supplement, not replace, a healthy diet. Whole foods provide fiber, antioxidants, and additional nutrients that support a healthy pregnancy. We encourage a diet rich in:

Leafy greens

Lean proteins

Whole grains

Dairy or calcium-rich alternatives

Fruits and vegetables

And don’t forget to drink plenty of water!

Have More Questions? We’re Here to Help.

Every pregnancy is unique. At Burlington OBGYN Associates, our providers are here to guide you through all stages — from planning to postpartum — with evidence-based advice and compassionate care.
If you have questions about which prenatal vitamin is right for you, or you’re experiencing side effects, don’t hesitate to contact our office or bring it up at your next visit. Schedule your next appointment with Burlington OB-GYN today and feel confident knowing you’re in trusted hands.