Is eating the right kinds of foods already enough for a pregnant woman? Think twice. Experts discovered that pregnant women taking prenatal vitamins are healthier and that also includes their child.

Many fertility experts recommend that if possible, pregnant women should not limit themselves in eating foods only. It is also advised that women should take prenatal vitamins. This is not to replace the nutrients, but instead, supplement the other nutrients present inside the body.

Many doctors advised women to take at least 200 micrograms (mcg) of folic acid or folate to reduce the risk of having birth defects, neural tube defects and other congenital conditions during pregnancy. One of the most common defect is spina bifida. Prenatal vitamins in indeed necessary since acquiring birth defects can be a problem within the family.

Two separate studies in 1991 and 1996 found out that folic acid can help prevent neural tube defects, urinary tract and cardiovascular defects. Deficiency folic acid will lead to low birth weight and increased incidence of neural tube defects.

Another necessary prenatal vitamin is iron. Iron is the main component of hemoglobin which is the part of the blood that carries oxygen. Thus, iron is important in the transportation of oxygen in the body of the pregnant woman and that of the unborn child. Iron enhances the baby’s healthy growth and helps the mother maintain a healthy body as she gives birth to a baby.

There are many things Vitamin A can do. First, it can help in developing the embryo,cells and tissues. Second, it fights infections and repair damaged tissues. Third, it can also help in lactation which is done during breastfeeding. Lastly, it develops other parts of the body such as the eyes, heart, skin and mucous membranes. These are the reasons why Vitamin A is essential for pregnant women.

What is good in taking prenatal vitamins is not only in helping you when you were pregnant but also in providing a healthy life to your child.

Natasha Marryat runs the Why Can’t I Get Pregnant blog where she blogs about pregnancy issues. Hop over to her blog to learn more about trying to get pregnant.