What is the main purpose of prenatal vitamins?

The main purpose of prenatal vitamins is to ensure adequate nutrition for both the mother and the developing fetus. During pregnancy, the nutritional needs of a woman increase significantly due to the demands of both her own body and the growth and development of the fetus. Prenatal vitamins are specifically formulated to provide essential vitamins and minerals that may be lacking in a woman's regular diet, such as folic acid, iron, calcium, and DHA.

Folic acid is especially important as it helps prevent neural tube defects in the developing fetus. Iron is crucial for making additional blood to supply oxygen to both the mother and baby, and calcium supports the development of the baby's bones and teeth. In this context, prenatal vitamins play a vital role in supporting maternal health and promoting optimal fetal growth, making option B the correct answer.

In contrast, enhancing the mother's physical appearance, promoting weight loss, or preparing the body for childbirth do not reflect the primary nutritional objectives of prenatal vitamins and are not supported by the established guidelines for prenatal care.