What is the greatest risk for a woman who does not take prenatal vitamins during her pregnancy?

Prenatal vitamins are specifically formulated to ensure that pregnant women receive essential nutrients that support both their health and the developing fetus. One of the key components of prenatal vitamins is folic acid, which is crucial in preventing neural tube defects in the fetus. Additionally, these vitamins can help to prevent deficiencies in other critical nutrients, such as iron, which is necessary for the body to produce hemoglobin.

When a woman does not take prenatal vitamins, she is at a heightened risk for developing anemia. Anemia during pregnancy can occur due to insufficient iron levels, which can lead to fatigue, weakness, and complications for both the mother and the baby. The body needs extra iron to support the increased blood volume and the fetal development, and without adequate supplementation from prenatal vitamins, there is a significant risk of anemia developing.

The other options, while they present potential issues in different contexts, do not have the same direct connection to the absence of prenatal vitamins as anemia does. Hence, not taking prenatal vitamins can lead to significant risks, particularly regarding the development and health of both the mother and the child, making anemia the most pressing concern.