Are Prenatal Gummies as Good as Pills? - A Comparison for You

I have a revelation... I didn't always take my prenatal with my first pregnancy. 

The truth is after several tries, I simply could not keep it down.

Aside from the morning sickness...scratch that, constant nausea I was  experiencing anytime I attempted to down my prenatal pill, it didn't stick, if you know what I mean (insert nauseated face emoji) . 

I remember my doctor suggesting I take them with a small amount of food but that really didn't work in my case. 

Normally I eat healthy meals, but the truth is I wasn't really keeping much down, so my fear was how important was it that I even take a prenatal?

Is taking prenatal vitamins important during pregnancy?

Taking a prenatal during pregnancy and even while trying to conceive is important, because it provides the essential vitamins and nutrients for the prenatal development of the baby.

Studies have even shown that taking a prenatal and ensuring pregnant moms get enough folic acid is very important. Prenatal supplements are designed to ensure that both the mother and the developing baby receive all the essential nutrients needed for a healthy pregnancy.

In fact taking folic acid 12 weeks prior to conception some would even consider most important, because it allows it to build up in your body and offer the most protection against neural tube defects.

(I truly wished someone had told me to start taking a prenatal prior to getting pregnant so my body could have been best ready (considering nausea doesn’t set in until you conceive at least I could have had a build up of healthy folic acid).

If you aren’t taking prenatal vitamins, there is the possibility that neural defects for baby, which is essentially when the babies skull and brain do not form correctly and can also impact the formation of the spine and spinal cord.

To sum it up a prenatal can reduce the risk of pregnancy complications and that’s massively important.

My doctor even suggested because I wasn’t keeping much down it was especially important for me as well.

Types of Prenatal Vitamins

When it comes to prenatal vitamins, there’s no one-size-fits-all solution. They come in various forms, including pills, gummies, and even liquids. Each type has its own set of advantages and disadvantages, so it’s all about finding what works best for you.

Pill-form prenatal vitamins are the most common and are often considered the most effective. However, if you’re like me and struggle with swallowing pills or have a sensitive stomach, gummy prenatal vitamins might be your new best friend. These gummy vitamins are not only easier to take but also gentler on the stomach, making them a popular choice for many expecting moms.

Liquid prenatal vitamins are another option, though they might not be as convenient to take as pills or gummies. They can be a bit messy and may require refrigeration, but they do offer an alternative for those who have trouble with other forms.

I can't keep my prenatal pill down due to an upset stomach, what do I do?

OK, A new mom can get a bit panicked when they realize it’s been several days and they haven’t been able to keep their prenatal down.

At least that was my experience.

After contacting my doctor there was a few suggestions:

1. I could cut the pills in half and take one in the am and the other half pm.  (didn’t work by the way).

2. I could try to up my food intake to include even more vitamins and then consider just adding folic acid or a children’t multi… (this plan might have worked but foods containing folic acid really weren’t all that appealing to me: spinach, lot’s of the seafood was off the table, and beans or peanuts etc).

3. I could find a prenatal recommended in a gummy form, often referred to as gummy prenatals, that typically does not include iron because iron can be really hard on the stomach. Prenatal gummy vitamins are a popular choice for moms-to-be who have difficulty swallowing pills or experience nausea with traditional prenatal vitamins.

4. Take them at night with the consideration that maybe you could sleep through the iron upsetting your stomach (also didn’t work, I just lost sleep).

5. Try a bunch of brands and just find one you can tolerate (kind of an expensive and unfocused suggestion but I mean I guess it checks…

Gentle on the Stomach Gummy Prenatal Vitamins:

While I initially wanted a prenatal with iron in addition to folic acid, I quickly learned that I really didn’t have the stomach for it (pun).

Interestingly enough my friends who were able to stomach their prenatals with iron, complained of intense constipation and relayed stories of them just crying on the toilet quite literally trying to poop.

I ultimately abandoned any vitamins with iron in them to start; figuring I would up my dried fruit intake.

I decided I would go for a gummy prenatal because the feedback was they are typically gentler and purposely lack iron while containing all the other good stuff like folic acid and dha (two very important things on my must haves).

For me the Baby Blues gummy prenatal was a fix. Some days I sucked on it some days I chewed it slowly but it didn’t make my stomach upset to cause any hesitation with taking it based on my day and knowing that my baby was getting nutrition consistently was a big relief.

I feel strongly each mom has to decide and do their best based on what they can handle.

For me, going with a gummy allowed me to be consistent with my vitamin intake and get folic acid and dha; which was really important to me to provide for my baby.

While a prenatal shouldn’t replace a well-balanced diet, all too often in my case early on when I wasn’t keeping much down or not feeling like eating the leafy greens and veggies, I’m certain they helped provide the vital nutrients needed for a healthy pregnancy.

Choosing the Right Prenatal Vitamin

Choosing the right prenatal vitamin can feel like navigating a maze, especially with so many options out there. But don’t worry, I’ve got some tips to help you make the best choice for you and your baby.

First and foremost, look for a prenatal vitamin that contains all the essential nutrients. This includes folic acid, vitamin D, calcium, and iron. These nutrients are crucial for your baby’s development and your own health during pregnancy.

Next, consider the form of the vitamin. If you have trouble swallowing pills or experience an upset stomach, gummy prenatal vitamins might be a better option for you. They’re easier to take and often gentler on the stomach.

Brand reputation is also important. Opt for a reputable brand that adheres to good manufacturing practices (GMPs) and undergoes third-party testing. This ensures that you’re getting a high-quality product.

Price is another factor to consider. Prenatal vitamins can vary widely in cost, so find one that fits within your budget without compromising on essential nutrients.

Lastly, think about your personal preferences. If you have specific dietary needs, such as being vegan or gluten-free, make sure to choose a prenatal vitamin that meets those requirements.

Essential Ingredients in Prenatal Vitamins

Prenatal vitamins are packed with essential nutrients that support both your health and your baby’s development. Here are some of the key ingredients you should look for:

• Folic Acid: This is a superstar nutrient when it comes to preventing neural tube defects and supporting your baby’s brain development. It’s so important that many doctors recommend starting folic acid supplements even before you conceive.

• Vitamin D: Essential for your baby’s bone development and your own bone health. It helps your body absorb calcium, which is crucial during pregnancy.

• Calcium: Speaking of calcium, it’s necessary for building your baby’s bones and teeth. If you’re not getting enough from your diet, a prenatal vitamin can help fill the gap.

• Iron: Your body needs more iron during pregnancy to make extra blood for your baby. However, iron can be tough on the stomach, so if you experience nausea, you might want to consider a gummy prenatal vitamin that doesn’t contain iron.

• DHA: This omega-3 fatty acid is important for your baby’s brain development before and after birth. Some prenatal vitamins include DHA, but you can also get it from dietary supplements.

• Thiamin (Vitamin B1): Important for the development of your baby’s nervous system.

• Vitamin B12: Necessary for producing red blood cells and the development of your baby’s brain and nervous system.

Prenatal Vitamin Safety and Side Effects

Prenatal vitamins are generally safe, but like any supplement, they can come with some side effects. Common issues include nausea and vomiting, diarrhea or constipation, stomach cramps, and headaches.

To minimize these side effects, try taking your prenatal vitamin with food to reduce stomach upset. Starting with a low dose and gradually increasing it can also help your body adjust. If you find that regular prenatal vitamins are too harsh, consider switching to a gummy prenatal vitamin, which is often gentler on the stomach.

Remember, prenatal vitamins are not a substitute for a healthy diet. A well-balanced diet that includes essential nutrients is crucial for a healthy pregnancy. If you experience any severe side effects, consult with your healthcare provider to find a solution that works for you.

By following these tips and choosing the right prenatal vitamin, you can help ensure a healthy pregnancy for both you and your baby.