Q: I am 30 years old. We are planning to have a child now. I have heard a lot about prenatal vitamins. Are they helpful in increasing fertility? How long do I have to take them? Will the intake of prenatal vitamins during pregnancy affect the child? Can I use prenatal vitamins or tablets rich in folic acid, which are available on the counter without consulting a doctor? Will it lead to any problems?

A:There is no need and no advantage in taking much advertised over the counter supplements; some of them with high vitamin A content can even be harmful for pregnancy. However, it is good to start on folic acid and iron in a controlled release formulation. You can take Fecontin-Z Continus - one tablet daily now and during pregnancy.