You should ideally start taking prenatal vitamins before conception , when you decide to try to conceive. Taking them early helps build your body's levels of key nutrients, especially folate, which supports early neural tube development in the baby’s brain and spine during the first few weeks after conception. Since many women don't realize they are pregnant until around the time of their first missed period, starting prenatal vitamins beforehand helps avoid nutrient gaps during this critical stage. If you have not taken prenatal vitamins before pregnancy, you should start as soon as you find out you are pregnant. Prenatal vitamins provide important nutrients like folic acid, iron, vitamin D, calcium, and others that support the healthy development of the fetus and the well-being of the mother throughout pregnancy. Health organizations typically recommend taking at least 400 micrograms of folic acid daily starting at least 1 month before pregnancy and continuing through the first 12 weeks of pregnancy. Some women with specific health histories may need higher doses, as advised by their healthcare provider. In summary:

• Start prenatal vitamins at least 1 to 3 months before trying to conceive.
• If already pregnant and hadn’t started, begin them immediately.
• Continue taking prenatal vitamins throughout pregnancy and sometimes during breastfeeding as advised.

This approach helps ensure critical nutrients are available during early fetal development, reducing risks such as neural tube defects and supporting overall pregnancy health.