If you’re even thinking about getting pregnant soon, there’s one little daily habit that can have a big impact: taking a prenatal vitamin. Think of it as your first act of love for the baby you’re dreaming about—and for your own body, too.
🕒 Why You Should Start Before You’re Pregnant
Most people assume prenatals are for after that positive test. But by the time you find out you’re pregnant, your baby’s brain and spine have already started forming. Crazy, right?
That’s why experts recommend starting a prenatal at least three months before you try to conceive. Those nutrients support:
- Early neural tube development
- Healthy ovulation
- Egg quality and implantation
🌿 What to Look for in a Prenatal Vitamin
Not all prenatals are created equal. Here’s a simple ingredient checklist:
| Nutrient | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Folate (not folic acid) | Supports neural tube development |
| Iron | Prevents anemia and supports oxygen flow |
| Vitamin D | Helps with bone development and immunity |
| DHA | Essential for baby’s brain and eye development |
| Choline | Supports brain development & placenta health |
| Iodine | Regulates thyroid & baby’s metabolism |
| Calcium + Magnesium | Help prevent cramps & support strong bones |
⭐ Choline is often missing or low in many prenatals—but it’s so important. I always check for this.
🗓️ When to Start Taking a Prenatal
The ideal time? 90 days before trying to conceive.
Eggs mature over three months, and this gives your body time to build up nutrient stores and support hormonal balance. Even if you’re not “actively trying,” it’s a wise move if pregnancy might be on the horizon.
💊 Suzy’s Favorite Prenatal Vitamins
There are a lot of prenatal vitamins out there, and not all are created equal. These are the ones I’ve researched, trust, and recommend to my coaching clients. Each one has its own strengths—whether you’re looking for high choline, whole-food ingredients, or a gummy option you’ll actually take.
💗 FullWell Prenatal Multivitamin – Suzy’s Top Pick! Packed with choline, folate, and vitamin D—this one is the gold standard for comprehensive, well-rounded support during preconception and pregnancy.
🍋 Ritual Essential for Women Prenatal – Sleek, vegan, and easy to digest with a lemony aftertaste. A favorite for women with nausea who want clean, transparent sourcing.
🌿 Thorne Basic Prenatal – A trusted, well-researched formula with bioavailable folate—ideal if you want something straightforward and science-backed.
🌼 Garden of Life Organics Prenatal Once Daily – A whole-food-based option with iron and folate that’s gentle on your stomach and made from organic fruits and veggies.
🍃 Pure Synergy PureNatal – Organic, non-GMO, and crafted with real foods. A great pick if you’re leaning into a clean, natural lifestyle.
🍇 MaryRuth Organics Prenatal & Postnatal Gummies – If you hate swallowing pills, these are a tasty and convenient way to get key nutrients like folate and vitamin D.
Suzy’s Tip: If you’re not getting enough DHA in your prenatal, consider adding a separate omega-3 supplement to support baby’s brain development.
(And yes—these are affiliate links. If you decide to click and buy, I may earn a small commission. But I only recommend what I genuinely believe in and would take myself!)
