For some of us, pregnancy can come as an unexpected surprise. For others, it’s a planned-out, prayed-for blessing. If you’re in the stages of planning and prepping to grow your family, there are a few things you can take to make sure your body is in a happy, healthy state. While I can provide some general information, it’s important to consult a healthcare professional before taking any supplements for fertility.
Some of the most common issues a woman experiences during pregnancy are nausea, vomiting, back pain, shortness of breath, fatigue, and muscle cramps. Many of these symptoms are actually due to mineral and vitamin deficiencies that are preventable. By taking supplementation prior to pregnancy, you can help ward off some of these uncomfortable symptoms so that you can feel your best while growing a new life.
Some supplements that are often discussed in relation to fertility and pregnancy include:
Folate (Folic Acid): Important for preventing neural tube defects in the early stages of pregnancy.
Iron: Helps support healthy blood and oxygen flow, which is important for reproductive health especially since a woman’s blood volume will increase during pregnancy
Vitamin D: Plays a role in improving fertility in both men and women and encourages bone health and development
Vitamin B-12: Supports the nervous system and helps prevent certain birth defects
These can often be found in a well-rounded prenatal vitamin. Prenatal vitamins are designed to provide essential nutrients that are important for a healthy pregnancy. They can help fill nutritional gaps and ensure both the mother and the developing baby receive the necessary nutrients. However, having healthy levels of these vitamins and minerals prior to pregnancy can lead to improved pregnancy and lessened symptoms like nausea, headaches, fatigue, and more. I used Klaire Labs Prenatal and Nursing formula while pregnant and felt great and was able to avoid many symptoms that come with being pregnant. For a more specific and personalized prenatal, talk to your physician about your options and make sure they include these four listed above.