Should I start taking prenatal vitamins before getting pregnant? This question often arises among those contemplating conception. Is there a specific timeline that one should adhere to? Considering the multitude of factors that contribute to a healthy pregnancy, including maternal nutrition, could initiating prenatal vitamins prior to conception be advantageous? How crucial is it for potential mothers to prepare their bodies well in advance? What specific nutrients or vitamins are essential in the prenatal period? Beyond just folic acid, for instance, do components like iron, calcium, and DHA also play pivotal roles in optimizing maternal health and fetal development? Furthermore, is there scientific evidence supporting the benefits of preconception vitamin supplementation? Could the absence of these nutrients during the early stages of pregnancy possibly lead to complications? Ultimately, how can prospective parents make informed decisions regarding their health and the health of their future children? What should be considered in this vital preparation phase?