Prenatal Multivitamin
Commonly used for
NutritionWomen's Health
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What is it? / Overview
Adequate periconceptional folate supports neural tube closure in the first weeks of pregnancy, often before pregnancy is confirmed -- folic acid has an A-grade USPSTF recommendation for this specifically. Iron, iodine, and other nutrients cover pregnancy's increased demands. A 4 mg/day high-dose folic acid regimen is sometimes used for prior neural-tube-defect-affected pregnancies, but only under clinician guidance.
How is it used? / Administration
Form: Prenatal multivitamin with folic acid (or L-5-MTHF), iron, iodine, often DHA -- choose a low-preformed-vitamin-A formulation
Typical dose studied: One daily serving; folate component 400-800 mcg/day
Timing: Ideally started at least 1 month preconception and continued through pregnancy/lactation; with food if nauseated
Distinct from the general adult multivitamin entry -- pregnancy-specific dosing (folate, iron, iodine, DHA) and the vitamin-A-form caution are the reasons this is its own entry rather than a note.
How well does it work? / Evidence
✓ Well-established
Who should avoid it?
Avoid with: Hemochromatosis / Iron overload
Interacts with: Levothyroxine and certain antibiotics -- iron/calcium content reduces absorption; separate dosing; Antiepileptic drugs -- folate dosing should be coordinated with neurology
Already taking it? Continue as directed; confirm the product uses a low-preformed-retinol form of vitamin A (high preformed vitamin A is teratogenic).
Research & references
US Preventive Services Task Force (2023). Folic Acid Supplementation to Prevent Neural Tube Defects: USPSTF Reaffirmation Recommendation Statement. JAMA. Viswanathan M et al. (2023). Folic Acid Supplementation to Prevent Neural Tube Defects. JAMA. Abate BB et al. (2024). Preconception Folic Acid and Multivitamin Supplementation for the Prevention of Neural Tube Defect: An Umbrella Review. Neuroepidemiology.
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