During pregnancy, your body is no longer working just for itself. Everything you eat, drink, and take now counts for two. You’ve probably heard of folic acid (vitamin B9) or omega-3. Or maybe you feel overwhelmed and don’t know what to focus on anymore. That’s why we’re breaking it all down for you: why prenatal vitamins are so important, how long to take them, and what to pay attention to.
Prenatal vitamins: why are they so important?
During pregnancy, your nutritional needs shift. Vitamins and minerals that were once easy to get may suddenly fall short. Your body prioritises your baby, which means your own reserves can deplete more quickly. Prenatal vitamins are designed to fill in these gaps. They help create a stable foundation, support your energy levels, and contribute to your baby’s healthy development.
Folic acid: Essential for early development
The nervous system begins to form very early; in the first few weeks after conception. Folic acid, or vitamin B9, plays a crucial role in this process. That’s why it’s recommended to start taking it before you’re pregnant. This gives your body time to build up healthy folate levels before your baby’s development begins.
How long should you take prenatal vitamins?
It’s advised to start taking prenatal vitamins as soon as you begin trying to conceive. Ideally, you continue throughout the entire pregnancy. In certain situations, like breastfeeding or having a reduced appetite after giving birth, it may be beneficial to keep taking them for a while longer. What matters most is consistency and listening to what your body needs.
Omega-3 fatty acids: Supporting brain development
DHA, an omega-3 fatty acid, is important for the development of your baby’s brain and eyes. Since the body doesn’t produce these fatty acids on its own, you rely on food or supplements to get enough. Especially during the second and third trimesters, additional DHA can be a valuable addition.
Iron: Preventing anaemia
Your blood volume increases during pregnancy, which also raises your iron needs. It’s not uncommon to develop a deficiency, leading to anaemia. This often comes with symptoms like fatigue, shortness of breath, or dizziness. Iron supplements help reduce this risk and maintain your energy levels.
Vitamin D during pregnancy
The Health Council recommends that pregnant women take a vitamin D supplement during pregnancy. This vitamin plays a role in your baby’s bone development. Vitamin D supplementation may also reduce the risk of gestational diabetes, low birth weight, and asthma-like symptoms in the child.
Prenatal multivitamin
Smart Vitamins for Her by Insentials is a multivitamin containing key nutrients for pregnancy; not more, but also not less. It’s tailored to meet the increased needs during pregnancy. Each capsule contains 500 micrograms of folic acid, among other nutrients.
It also includes vitamin B12, vitamin B8, vitamin D, and iron; a mineral that’s often lacking during pregnancy. Iron helps fight fatigue and supports healthy blood volume. What makes this formula especially unique is that the capsules are enriched with omega-3 fatty acids. That means you also get DHA without needing a separate supplement.
Even after giving birth, this vitamin and mineral complex remains a valuable daily support.
The importance of balanced nutrition alongside supplements
Taking scientifically backed supplements is important, but it’s no excuse to eat less variety. Food remains the foundation during pregnancy: make sure to include healthy fats like oily fish in your diet. Also eat plenty of leafy greens and fruits, for example to get enough vitamin C. Protein and fibre are equally important. Supplements fill in where needed but don’t replace the role of a balanced, healthy diet.
