Prenatal Vitamins (original) (raw)

To avoid stomach irritation, you can take prenatal vitamins

with food or with a full glass of water or milk, unless your

doctor directs you otherwise.

If you miss a dose of the prenatal vitamins, take the missed dose as soon as possible after you remember. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, do not take the missed dose at all; just return to your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the next dose.

Prenatal Vitamin Side Effects

Minor: Constipation, diarrhea, nausea, stomach upset, or vomiting. These side effects should disappear as your body adjusts to the prenatal vitamins.

To relieve constipation, increase the amount of fiber in your diet (fresh fruits and vegetables, salads, bran, and whole-grain breads), exercise, and drink more water (unless your doctor directs you to do otherwise).

Black stools are a normal consequence of iron therapy and do not indicate that a problem has developed from the vitamin therapy.

Major: Tell your doctor about any side effects that are persistent or particularly bothersome. IT IS ESPECIALLY IMPORTANT TO TELL YOUR DOCTOR about bloody or tarry stools or severe abdominal pain.