In providing prenatal care to a pregnant patient, what does the nurse teach the expectant mother?

A) Calcium intake is especially important in the first trimester.
B) Protein intake needs to decrease to preserve kidney function.
C) Folic acid is needed to help prevent birth defects and anemia.
D) Extra vitamins and minerals should be taken as much as possible.

Folic acid intake is particularly important for DNA synthesis and growth of red blood cells. Inadequate intake may lead to fetal neural tube defects, anencephaly, or maternal megaloblastic anemia. Protein intake throughout pregnancy needs to increase to 60 grams daily. Calcium intake is especially critical in the third trimester, when fetal bones mineralize. Prenatal care usually includes vitamin and mineral supplementation to ensure daily intakes; however, pregnant women should not take additional supplements beyond prescribed amounts.