When you’re expecting, on-going prenatal care with your OB-GYN is essential to ensure your health as well as the health of your growing baby. In addition to tracking development and spotting issues early on, your prenatal doctor may recommend lifestyle changes to promote a healthy pregnancy, including prenatal vitamins. If you’re wondering what vitamins and supplements are right for you, read the following helpful information. 

A Guide to Understanding Prenatal Care & Supplements

Why Do Prenatal Doctors Recommend Vitamins?

During pregnancy, fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins are essential to a healthy diet. That being said, it can be challenging to track your meals and confirm your body is getting everything it needs. To supplement your diet and enhance prenatal care, your doctor is likely to recommend taking a series of vitamins. By taking supplements, you’ll successfully fill in any gaps and, in turn, help with the healthy growth and development of your child. 

What Should You Look for in Your Vitamin Supplements?

Prenatal multivitamins are widely available at grocery stores and health food stores. Unlike traditional multivitamins, supplements focused on prenatal care include additional folic acid to reduce neural tube defects and iron to prevent anemia. Before purchasing vitamins, check to make sure they include a combination of folic acid and iron, as well as calcium to keep bones strong and vitamin D to support immune function. Finding supplements that include Omega-3 fatty acids is also recommended to promote nerve transmission, regulate blood pressure, and aid in kidney function. It’s important to note prenatal vitamins should supplement a healthy diet and should not be used as a substitute for proper nutrition. 

If you’re trying to conceive or you’ve recently learned you’re pregnant, the dedicated team at Advanced OB-GYN Services can provide friendly, personalized prenatal care. With two convenient locations and a compassionate, yet cutting-edge approach, women throughout St. Peters and Bridgeton, MO, can count on this gynecologist through every stage of pregnancy. To schedule an appointment at the St. Peters office, call (636) 928-1800 or for an appointment at the Bridgeton office call (314) 291-2140. For more information on Dr. Joseph Hazan, his 30 years of experience, and this modern practice, visit their website.