Study Identifies Prenatal Vitamins That May Lower Infant Death Risk

As research progresses, the importance of prenatal vitamins becomes increasingly clear. These essential supplements don’t just help moms maintain energy and wellness during pregnancy—they also provide critical nutrients for a baby’s development. Now, a new study suggests they may do even more, potentially reducing the risk of infant death.

A study conducted by George Mason University’s College of Public Health examined prenatal supplements that could help protect small and vulnerable babies—those born preterm, with low birth weight or small for their gestational age—three groups at the highest risk of infant mortality.

Compared to iron and folic acid alone—two prenatal supplements commonly recommended since the 1970s—researchers found that adding multiple micronutrient supplements (MMS) (similar to a standard multivitamin) and small-quantity lipid-based nutrient supplements (SQ-LNS) (which provide essential fatty acids and additional calories) reduced the number of small and vulnerable babies—and, in turn, the risk of infant death—by 27 percent.

“This study underscores the important promise of nutritional supplements in prenatal care in low- and middle-income countries,” the study’s author Dongqing Wang said in a press release. “In particular, the protective effects of prenatal multiple micronutrients on most small vulnerable newborn types, particularly those with the greatest mortality risk, strongly supports switching from iron and folic acid supplements to MMS as the standard care.”

While Wang’s research primarily focused on low- and middle-income countries, the findings have important implications for parents in the US and beyond—especially as preterm birth rates continue to rise in America. While genetics, medical conditions and other lifestyle factors all play a role in preterm birth, a well-rounded prenatal vitamin may also be a key factor in ensuring the healthiest possible start for babies.

Picking a prenatal that is right for you and baby can be overwhelming. If you want some help cutting through the noise, check this comprehensive list of science-backed, doctor- and mom-approved prenatal vitamins.