Prenatal multivitamin

Definition

Prenatal multivitamins are specially formulated supplements designed to meet the increased nutritional needs of pregnant women. They typically contain higher levels of folic acid, iron, and other essential vitamins and minerals vital for fetal development and maternal health.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Prenatal multivitamins help prevent neural tube defects in the developing fetus through adequate folic acid intake.
2. They support maternal blood volume expansion and oxygen transport by providing additional iron.
3. These supplements often include DHA, an omega-3 fatty acid crucial for fetal brain development.
4. Calcium and vitamin D in prenatal multivitamins help support the skeletal development of the fetus while maintaining maternal bone health.
5. Many prenatal multivitamins also contain vitamin B6, which can help reduce nausea during early pregnancy.

Review Questions

• What role does folic acid in prenatal multivitamins play in fetal development?
• Why is additional iron important in prenatal multivitamins for pregnant women?
• How do DHA and calcium in prenatal multivitamins benefit both the mother and the fetus?

Related terms

Folic Acid: A B-vitamin essential for preventing neural tube defects during early pregnancy.

Iron Supplementation: The process of increasing iron intake to support increased blood volume and oxygen transport during pregnancy.

DHA (Docosahexaenoic Acid): An omega-3 fatty acid important for brain and eye development in fetuses.