prenatal vitamin question

what is the benefit to taking them while TTC?

I had started taking some a while ago..but I'll be 100% honest here...i stopped.

Is there any added benefit to taking them as opposed to other regular vitamins?

thanks

Re: prenatal vitamin question

my doctor said it had something to do with spina bifida. I believe it has to do with the folic acid (most everyday vitamins only have half of the recommended amount of folic acid)

After a quick search here is what i found...

link

Message edited 4/18/2012 2:32:00 PM.

Re: prenatal vitamin question

you take them before to get your body in its best condition before conception takes place. they will address any deficiencies your body may have.

Re: prenatal vitamin question

Re: prenatal vitamin question

The thing about vitamins is you might not absorb 100% of the vitamin/mineral contained in the pills. For some nutrients, you need to build up your supply a little over time.

I know calcium, for example, you cannot digest/absorb 100% of your daily amount in one pill. A lot of pills contain that much but you might only absorb 50-75% of it. I think they put that much in the pill so you can absorb as much as your body naturally allows.

So, that being said, I think its important to be on them for a while. By the time you get your BFP, you are at least 4 weeks pregnant. If you just start then, it might be a little bit before all your stores are 'up'.

I don't say this to scare anyone, I think a regular vitamin is better than nothing but they do sell pre-natals OTC, so why not just take them. They cost the same as regular too.

Re: prenatal vitamin question

Also there are certain things in there that help your babies development right from conception. My dr also had me on an extra folic acid pill as well.