Do you need to take prenatal vitamins? Yes, prenatal vitamins are necessary during pregnancy and even preconception! Prenatal vitamins contain folic acid, a B vitamin that helps prevent fetal defects of the brain, spine and spinal cord (collectively known as neural tube defects) with a minimum daily consumption of 400mcg. It is recommended women of childbearing age should be taking a folic acid supplement at least 3 months before trying to conceive. My favourite prenatal vitamin is Maternal Pren