Vitamin supplements in pregnancy
You can get most vitamins from a balanced diet, but some are especially important during pregnancy. It's recommended to take these vitamins as supplements to ensure you and your baby stay healthy.
Recommended vitamin supplements for pregnancy:
Folic Acid: Helps reduce the risk of spina bifida, heart or limb defects, and some brain tumors in babies.
Pregnant women should take 400 micrograms (µg) of folic acid daily before getting pregnant and continue until 12 weeks of pregnancy. If you didn't take folic acid before pregnancy, start as soon as you know you're expecting.
Vitamin D: Helps improve a baby’s growth and reduces the risk of rickets (weak bones).
Pregnant women should take 10 micrograms (µg) of vitamin D daily. Some people may need a higher dose. Ask your GP or midwife if this applies to you.
Should I take multivitamins during pregnancy?
It's better to take individual supplements rather than multivitamins. Most multivitamins aren't made for pregnant women and may contain high levels of vitamins like vitamin A, which can be harmful to the baby.
Do I need to take an iron supplement?
Most pregnant women don't need iron supplements. Your midwife or doctor will tell you if you need them based on tests showing you are anemic or are at risk of anemia, such as if you're carrying twins. Consult your midwife or doctor if you're concerned about your iron levels.
The Royal College of Obstetrics and Gynaecology has information about vitamins and healthy eating in pregnancy .