Prenatal Vitamins: Why We Love Them - and Hate Them

Prenatal vitamins: Why We Love Them - and Hate Them

We all know that prenatal vitamins are good for you - whether you have already conceived or are trying to conceive. Most prenatal vitamins are full of folic acid, a baby must, as well as other goodies that serve you above and beyond your normal multivitamin.

Why we love prenatal vitamins:

Hair. Thick, full and shinning hair! For those of us who normally have pretty fine hair this is a major bonus. While not everyone may experience this lovely little perk, some of us find ourselves with a little more hair than usual (and not just on our heads). Prenatal vitamins, especially ones rich with folic acid, can give hair a better boost that any volumizing shampoo out there.

Nails. You may notice that your nails are stronger, healthier and overall better looking. Stronger nails is another added bonus thanks to the increased amounts and mix of nutrients found in most vitamins.

Why we hate prenatal vitamins:

Constipation. Ugh! A not fun side effect of pregnancy. Prenatal vitamins can potentially further aggrevate your slowed down digestive system. The primary reason for this is iron. Most prenatal vitamins have high levels of iron, which can upset your digestive systems and result in constipation. Some vitamins have stool softners right in the vitamin that can make life all that easier. However, not all do. So you may need to contact your physician about recommended alternatives. Though there's always prune juice and flax seed - my two go to remedies.

Morning sickness. Finding your vitamins hard to swallow? When you're having a hard time stomaching anything the last thing you want to do is try to down a, typically large, prenatal vitamin. Take it easy on yourself. It is okay if you miss a day - or two. Be sure to take your vitamin with a meal during the time of day when you feel less sick. This can vary for some women so don't feel as if it has to be taken at the same time every day.

Here are some other great prenatal vitamin tips via Robin Elise Weiss, LCCE About.com:

The Scoop About Prenatal Vitamins
5 Problems with Prenatal Vitamins
Myths About Prenatal Vitamins


Pregnancy has many ups and downs, good days and bad days. At least on those days when you are feeling less than stellar you can rock out with your new thick locks, dress up those sturdy nails of yours and be proud of that healthy little baby growing inside of you.

What have been your prenatal vitamin experiences? What tips and tricks and suggestions do you have for other women? Share your wisdom - and join the discussion.