When to Start Taking Prenatal Vitamins if Trying to Conceive

Prenatal vitamins play an important role in the healthy development of a baby. They help you ensure that your child gets all the necessary nutrients for growth.

Deseré Davis - Writer for AskIris
By Deseré Davis
Edited by Taj Schlebusch

Published October 31, 2021.

Doctors advise that expectant mothers carefully look at the kinds of supplements and medication they take during pregnancy.

However, prenatal vitamins are highly recommended and should be on any mommy-to-be’s shopping list.

The key to a healthy pregnancy is a healthy mother, and taking prenatal vitamins will go a long way towards keeping you healthy.

Benefits of Taking Prenatal Vitamins Before Pregnancy

Vitamins are very good to help reduce the risk of preterm birth and improve health when trying to conceive.

If you’re wondering about why you should start taking prenatals before pregnancy, doing so will help you better prepare for the child that will be growing inside you.

It's easier to ensure your body has what it needs to help a baby grow healthily if you start taking prenatals before you’re pregnant.

Ideal Time to Start a Prenatal Supplement

While many women think it’s effective to take prenatal vitamins to get pregnant, this belief is nothing but a myth. Prenatal supplements will not help with fertility.

However, taking prenatal vitamins when not pregnant but trying is a fantastic idea.

You should take your first prenatal vitamins or supplements as soon as you decide to try for a baby. That way, you’re giving your body more than enough time to prepare.

Taking the best prenatal vitamins before pregnancy should be a priority, as you will be more likely to ensure healthy eggs if your body is healthy.

Alternatively, you can start taking these vitamins as soon as you discover that you are pregnant. You can still provide your growing baby with the nutrients it needs to grow strong and healthy.

When Should You Stop Taking Prenatal Vitamins?

You can stop taking your prenatal vitamins as soon as you’ve stopped breastfeeding. If you aren’t breastfeeding, you can stop taking them after birth.