Prenatal vitamins are special multivitamins for pregnant women or those trying to conceive. They have higher levels of important nutrients like folic acid, iron, and calcium, supporting the baby's development and the mother's health. Taking them daily during pregnancy helps ensure you get enough of these essential nutrients.

Folic acid is important during pregnancy as it helps prevent neural tube defects, such as spina bifida, in your baby. These defects can affect the brain and spinal cord. Getting enough folic acid, especially early in pregnancy, is crucial for the baby's development.

Iron is vital as it helps your body make extra blood to supply oxygen to the baby. Increased blood volume is crucial for a healthy pregnancy, and getting enough iron from your diet or supplements can prevent anemia, a condition where you have too few red blood cells.

Calcium plays a big role in building your baby's bones and teeth. It's also important for nerve function and muscle health. If you don't get enough calcium, your baby might take it from your bones, which can affect your health in the future.

Yes, some supplements and vitamins can be harmful during pregnancy. High doses of vitamin A, for example, can lead to congenital disabilities. Always check with your healthcare provider before starting any new supplement.

The best time to start taking prenatal vitamins is before you even get pregnant. Since neural tube development happens in the first month of pregnancy, often before many women know they're pregnant, starting early helps ensure the baby has all the necessary nutrients from the start.

If prenatal vitamins cause constipation, try increasing your fluid intake and adding fiber to your diet. Regular physical activity can also help. If you're still having trouble, your healthcare provider may recommend a stool softener or suggest a different prenatal vitamin that may be easier on your digestive system.