[tannerbella]

Are prenatal vitamins a must. I was originally using an over the counter vitamin which didnt cause me any problems, then my dr switched me to a prescribed vitamin, since taking that vitamin I am having daily stomach aches, diarhea, and loss of appetite. My mom says her and her friends never took prenatal vitamins b/c they always made them sick. Is a vitamin really a must? Is it okay maybe to just stick with the over the counter med?
Among all those things I was told today that I have a viable uterine pregnancy with a possible tubal abortion, spotting, and terribel back and ovary pain so I have been dealing with those things and forgot to ask my dr about the vitamins, I wont see him now til Friday what would you ladies do?

[CNYCPL]

I had the same effects when i went on them. Once you get used to them they go away. My RE did say that some over the counter ones are ok (i heard flinstone chewables) but i would call your dr and ask. Better to not take any chances.

[jencat215]

I take PrimaCare One, which is a Rx, but I really like it and I tolerate it well. Before TTC I took Flinstones. I hate swallowing pills. My ob told me that it was fine, just to take 2 once I got pg. OTC prenatals are perfectly fine too, just make sure they have AT LEAST 400mg (preferably more) folic acid.

But yes, unless you are a perfect healthy balanced eater, you need to take vitamins, at the minimum folic acid, even while TTC. Folic acid really helps prevent neural tube defects, and so much so that many foods (pasta for example) are fortified with it to try and increase our diets with it.