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Whether you're pregnant or just considering having a baby, you probably have a dozen things on your mind. While images of a blanket swaddled newborn might dance in your head, you're probably considering other issues like bottle versus breastfeeding, what type of maternity clothes to buy, and what names you might choose for your little bundle of joy. If you've visited your OBGYN for your prenatal appointment or simply to discuss getting pregnant, your doctor has probably prescribed prenatal vitamins.

Prenatal vitamins are by no means necessary for the health of your newborn, but they can be a good safety measure to ensure that your body is getting all the nutrients it needs during this especially important time. If you're very health conscious and eat the right foods, chances are that your body is getting the nutrients it needs. However, during pregnancy many women experience nausea and sickness or simply find they have cravings for certain foods that may not be the healthiest choices. A prenatal vitamin can fill in the gaps, making sure your baby gets all the vitamins he or she needs to grow and thrive.

Among the benefits of a prenatal vitamin is the fact that it ensures your body gets an adequate amount of iron. Studies have proven that most women don't consume enough iron during their pregnancies. Iron deficiency can result in anemia, a condition that can easily be avoided by taking a proper prenatal vitamin.

Another important component of prenatal vitamins is folic acid. Important in pregnancy, folic acid has been found to reduce the risk of birth defects. In fact, many doctors recommend that women who are trying to conceive begin taking a folic acid supplement or boosting their folic acid consumption at least one month before trying to get pregnant.

Although prenatal vitamins are not a necessity, they certainly contain many benefits. With one dose a day, you can rest assured that your baby-to-be is receiving all the nutrients he or she needs, keeping his or her development and growth right on track so you increase your chances of having a healthy newborn.