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Q&A: Prenatal Vitamins

If you're stumped as to what to look for in an OTC prenatal vitamin, here are some tips to help you make a healthy decision next time you're in the vitamin isle.

Q. What kind of prenatal vitamins should I take?

A. Prenatal vitamins are available over-the-counter (OTC) in your local drugstore or by prescription. OTC vitamins are fine provided they are labeled as "prenatal vitamins." Whether you choose prescription or OTC may depend on what kind of prescription coverage your health insurance offers. If it covers prescriptions, you can save money by using prescription vitamins. If it doesn't, you'll probably end up paying less if you buy OTC vitamins.

When you're shopping for vitamins, you may notice that some brands are fortified with omega-3 fatty acids. Emerging data suggest that omega-3 fatty acids may help prevent preterm labor; however, this data is preliminary, and more studies must be done to determine whether there is a cause and effect. Check with your provider or dietitian about whether omega-3 fatty acid supplements are right for you.

Originally published in You & Your Baby: Pregnancy.

All content on this Web site, including medical opinion and any other health-related information, is for informational purposes only and should not be considered to be a specific diagnosis or treatment plan for any individual situation. Use of this site and the information contained herein does not create a doctor-patient relationship. Always seek the direct advice of your own doctor in connection with any questions or issues you may have regarding your own health or the health of others.