It is important to make sure you have an adequate nutrient intake while you are using various birth control methods. Certain birth control methods may change the amount of these essential vitamins and minerals your body needs. Thiamin, riboflavin and niacin are concerned with energy production. Vitamin B6 does the most to make other vitamins work. Vitamin B12 and folic acid are needed for healthy blood.
Folic acid can also reduce the risk of certain birth defects of the brain and spinal cord.
Vitamin C helps with wound healing Some minerals such as zinc, iron and magnesium are necessary for general health. It may be difficult to get the increased amounts of specific vitamins and minerals needed or in the proper form the body requires. Women using certain birth control methods may have additional requirements as indicated in the following table. If you are a teenager or if you are planning to become pregnant in the near future, your nutritional needs may be greater than average. You should consume 400 micrograms of folic acid each day to reduce the risk of having a baby with brain or spinal cord defects.