Prenatal Vitamins
Prenatal supplements, also known as prenatal vitamins, are frequently used by women before conception and throughout gestation. Their purpose is to guarantee that both the expectant mother and the developing fetus obtain the necessary quantity of vital nutrients. They usually contain folic acid, iron, and other micronutrients, but the composition varies from brand to brand.
Quick Answer
What it is
Prenatal supplements, also known as prenatal vitamins, are frequently used by women before conception and throughout gestation. Their purpose is to guarantee that both the expectant mother and the developing fetus obtain the necessary quantity of vital nutrients.
Key findings
- Grade B: Infant Birth Weight (Malnutrition)
- Grade C: Executive Function (Infant Health)
- Grade D: Anemia Risk (Infant Health)
Safety
No specific caution or interaction language was detected in the current summary/outcome notes.
âšī¸ Quick Facts: Prenatal Vitamins
Quick Facts: Prenatal Vitamins
- Best Evidence:Grade B
- Conditions Studied:3
- Research Outcomes:15
- Grade B Findings:1
- Key Effect:Malnutrition
Detailed Outcomes
Evidence by Condition
Best grade per condition (each condition may have multiple outcomes)
Research Citations (2)
Related Supplements
Zinc
2 shared conditions ¡ 148 outcomes
Zinc is an essential mineral that is critical for the function of hundreds of enzymes. Consequently, it plays many roles, including in antioxidant enzymes, brain function, and the immune system. Zinc is most commonly taken to reduce the duration of respiratory infections and the common cold.
Vitamin D
2 shared conditions ¡ 308 outcomes
Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin that our skin synthesizes when exposed to the sun. It benefits us in many ways, from bone health to mood.
Saffron
2 shared conditions ¡ 390 outcomes
Saffron is a spice with antioxidant properties derived from the flowering plant Crocus sativus. When used as a supplement, saffron seems to be effective at reducing symptoms of depression and possibly anxiety.
Probiotics
2 shared conditions ¡ 215 outcomes
Probiotics are microorganisms that can have a positive effect on health.
Iron
2 shared conditions ¡ 70 outcomes
Iron is an essential mineral best known for helping red blood cells to carry oxygen. Except in the case of deficiency, iron supplementation has no proven benefit; on the contrary, it can lead to side effects and increased oxidative stress.
Folic Acid (Vitamin B9)
2 shared conditions ¡ 45 outcomes
Folic acid is a synthetic form of folate, an essential B vitamin, found in dietary supplements and fortified foods. Folic acid reduces the risk of neural tube defects (NTDs) when used in early pregnancy, treats certain types of anemia, and reduces levels of homocysteine, the latter of which may be linked to beneficial cardiovascular effects.
Calcium
2 shared conditions ¡ 32 outcomes
Calcium is an essential macromineral critical for bone health, muscle function, and nerve transmission. B-GRADE for depression symptoms in PMS (2 studies, 245 participants - small improvement) and fecal bile acids. D-GRADE for all-cause mortality (no effect) and free testosterone (no effect). Best obtained through diet (dairy, leafy greens, fortified foods). Supplementation recommended when dietary intake is insufficient, especially in postmenopausal women and those at osteoporosis risk. Calcium citrate is better absorbed than carbonate, especially without food. SAFETY NOTE: High-dose supplementation (>1000mg/day) may increase cardiovascular risk - controversial but warrants caution.
Yarrow
1 shared condition ¡ 19 outcomes
The yarrow plant (Achillea millefolium) is a member of the Asteraceae family that has been used in cultural and traditional treatment of wounds, menstrual concerns, and gastrointestinal discomfort worldwide.