When I found out I was expecting, choosing the right prenatal vitamin felt overwhelming. I’ve tried many different kinds—gummies, pills, and liquids—and learned firsthand that finding what works for you can be a journey. I know choosing the right prenatal vitamins can feel overwhelming, but it’s essential for supporting your health and your baby’s development. So here is a breakdown of some fantastic options to make your choice a little easier.
Gummies: Easy on the Stomach
If swallowing pills isn’t your thing, gummies like SmartyPants Prenatal Gummies are a delicious alternative. They include folate, vitamin D, and iodine but lack iron and DHA, meaning you’ll need separate supplements. This is great for moms prone to nausea from iron. They taste delicious and you will probably want more than recommended because they are yummy.
Traditional Pills: Comprehensive and Convenient
Pill-based vitamins like Garden of Life MyKind Organics Prenatal are perfect for moms seeking organic, whole-food-based options. These include folate, vitamin C, and B12 for energy but no DHA, so you can customize your supplement plan. It does contain iron (18mg) so you may need to supplement with another iron pill if you fall anemic.
Liquid Options: Fast Absorption
For those with sensitive stomachs, liquid prenatals such as Mary Ruth’s Liquid Prenatal are a game-changer. Packed with vitamins A, C, D, and E, they’re gentle on digestion and easy to measure for personalized doses. I have heard so many great things about this brand and how it helped many women especially during the first trimester. Again there is no Iron so you will need an additional supplement.
Iron Supplement
Many prenatals come without iron or a lower amount than the recommened daily value needed when pregnant. When I was pregnant I took my prenatal which had 18mg of iron and then another 2 pills of iron 27mg each from Nature Made. It seemed like too much iron but unfortunately my levels were super low. During my second pregnancy I used MaryRuths Vegan Liquid Iron it was easier on my stomach and I did not need as much iron compared to my first pregnancy.
DHA: Add It Separately
While DHA isn’t always included in standard prenatals, it’s crucial for baby’s brain and eye development. Look for a standalone DHA supplement like Nordic Naturals Prenatal DHA to pair with your vitamins. This one was amazing, because the strawberry flavor made it bearable to swallow.
Rituals Subscription Prenatal Vitamins
Some moms like to sign up to a subscription, because honestly, you start to forget a lot when your pregnant. Ritual has become a favorite for moms-to-be, thanks to its clean, transparent formula and convenience. These prenatals include essentials like folate, vitamin D, and magnesium but avoid artificial fillers or unnecessary extras. It was created by a mom looking for a super clean option.
Benefits of Ritual Prenatals:
- Traceable Ingredients: Know exactly where your vitamins come from.
- Gentle on the Stomach: Delayed-release capsules make them easier to digest.
- Convenient Subscription: No need to remember to restock—your vitamins arrive monthly.
Why Prenatal Vitamins Matter
Prenatal vitamins are essential for supporting the health of both mother and baby during pregnancy. They provide critical nutrients like folic acid, which helps prevent neural tube defects, and iron, which supports increased blood production. Prenatals also ensure proper fetal development, bone growth, and brain health with ingredients like calcium, vitamin D, and DHA. While a balanced diet is key, these vitamins fill nutritional gaps that can be hard to meet during pregnancy, ensuring you and your baby thrive.