Most prenatal supplements contain more folic acid and iron than you'll find in a standard multivitamin.
It's important to get enough folic acid before conception and during early pregnancy. Folic acid greatly reduces your baby's risk of developing neural tube birth defects such as spina bifida.
Ideally, you should start taking 400 micrograms of folic acid at least one month before becoming pregnant. Once your pregnancy is confirmed, up your daily dose to 600 mcg.
You also need to make sure you're getting enough iron. Your iron requirement increases significantly during pregnancy, especially during the second and third trimesters.
But more is not necessarily better — taking too much of certain things can actually be harmful. Avoid megadoses of any vitamin, and don't take any additional supplements or herbal preparations without your caregiver's okay.
Get early prenatal care
Watch what you eat
Take prenatal vitamins
Exercise regularly
Get some rest
Just say no to alcohol
Swear off all illicit drugs
Stop smoking
Cut back on caffeine
Eliminate environmental dangers
See your dentist
Take care of your emotional health
Fitness
