A prenatal vitamin is vital for a healthy pregnancy and a healthy baby, but knowing when to start taking them, which brand to buy and how much of each vitamin and mineral to look for can be daunting, Fox News reports.   

If you’re hoping to get pregnant, you should ideally start taking prenatal vitamins at least three months before you plan to get conceive. Prenatal vitamins have folic acid, which prevents neural tube defects and reduce the risk of autism.

Iron is essential for a baby’s growth and development and it prevents you from having anemia.

Your developing baby needs calcium for growth and bone development and strength and she’ll draw that nutrient from you.

 Look for a prenatal vitamin with at least 400 mg of magnesium, which is crucial for baby’s bone development. It will help you relieve muscle aches, improve energy, and aid relaxation.

Vitamin D not only helps mom absorb calcium and supports healthy blood pressure, but research shows its linked to better birth outcomes, too.

Studies show that DHA and EPA are important for baby’s brain and eye function. Most over-the-counter prenatal vitamins don’t include DHA and EPA, but you can take a supplement or ask your doctor for a prescription. Take at least 250 mg per day.

Vitamin B6 is important for a baby’s brain development and nervous system, and can maintain your energy and keep your mood balanced. Look for 2 mg of B6, but a prenatal vitamin with a vitamin B complex is even better.

Vitamin C but is essential for immunity, especially because we don’t produce it. 

Studies show that choline may help with cognitive abilities and IQ later in life. At least 30 mg a day is ideal.

From Julie Revelant, a freelance writer and copywriter specializing in parenting, health, healthcare, nutrition, food and women's issues.