Q&A: I want to know if there are any differences with prenatal vitamins.

by Marie O'Sullivan, RN

Is there a difference between prenatal vitamins? And if so, which one do you recommend?

After comparing five brands of prenatal vitamins, I found the following differences:

First, the dose of each vitamin is different in each brand. The vitamin to be most concerned about is folic acid (you need 1 mg/day to help prevent neural tube deficits such as spina bifida). All doctor prescribed brands have 1 mg. Over the counter brands have only 400 mcg.

The other big difference is the form in which the vitamin is offered. Some prenatal vitamins come in a chewable or liquid form. The liquid is especially helpful if you are nauseous. You can add the dose into your OJ and drink it.

find more about:
related categories:
All the pregnancy info you need—from the first trimester to the last.
watch more videos