Prenatal

A prenatal vitamin fills common nutrient gaps before conception, during pregnancy and while breastfeeding. Nutrient needs rise during this time, especially for folate, iron, iodine, choline and omega-3 DHA, and even a healthy diet can come up short.

This collection includes complete prenatal multivitamins, prenatal DHA, methylfolate, prenatal probiotics and daily nutrient packs from practitioner brands such as Thorne, Pure Encapsulations, Klaire Labs, Xymogen, Nordic Naturals, Garden of Life, Theralogix and NutriDyn.

How to Choose a Prenatal Vitamin

• Folate form: Many practitioner prenatals use methylfolate (5-MTHF), an active form of folate. Others use folic acid. Both count toward your daily folate.
• Iron: Most prenatals include iron. If you already take a separate iron supplement, compare totals with your practitioner.
• Iodine and choline: Two nutrients often missing from basic multivitamins. Check that your prenatal includes them or plan to add them.
• DHA: Most prenatal multis do not include omega-3. Pair yours with a prenatal DHA such as Nordic Naturals Prenatal DHA.
• Capsules, packets and kits: Capsule formulas such as Thorne Basic Prenatal often split the dose across 3 a day. Daily packets and kits bundle the prenatal, DHA and more.

Most practitioners suggest starting a prenatal at least three months before trying to conceive. Talk with your practitioner or midwife about which formula fits you, especially if you have dietary restrictions. See also omega-3 fish oil and probiotics.

Frequently Asked Questions

When should I start taking a prenatal vitamin?

Ideally at least three months before conception. Folate is most important in the earliest weeks of pregnancy, often before you know you are pregnant.

What is the difference between methylfolate and folic acid?

Methylfolate is an active form of folate, while folic acid must be converted by the body first. Many practitioners prefer methylfolate. Both are used in prenatal vitamins.

Can I keep taking my prenatal after the baby is born?

Yes. Many women continue a prenatal while breastfeeding. Nutrient needs stay higher during lactation. Formulas such as Prenatal and Nursing Formula are designed for both stages.

Do I need a separate DHA supplement?

Usually, yes. Most prenatal multivitamins do not contain omega-3 DHA, so many women add a prenatal fish oil.

Related categories: Multivitamins | Omega-3 Fish Oil | Iron | Probiotics | Women's Health

*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.