Do I need antenatal supplements?

Even though folic acid is found in foods like liver, leafy green vegetables and whole wheat bread, the Government still recommends that all women thinking about having a baby start taking folic acid supplements three months before trying to conceive.
Your doctor can prescribe them to you, or they are sold at most pharmacies. They come in 400 microgram capsules which should be taken once a day, or if you don’t like taking tablets, a folic acid milk drink is also available.

What are the benefits? All babies are potentially at some risk of developing spina bifida and other neural tube defects which affect the development of the brain and spinal cord. Most of these defects occur in the early stages of pregnancy which is why it’s vital to start taking folic acid before you’re pregnant. Folic acid plays a large role in cell growth and development as well as tissue formation.

Are some women at more risk? Women who’ve had twins or multiples or who have had babies close together may have vitamin and mineral deficiencies so it’s important to start taking folic acid supplements before falling pregnant again. Studies show that mothers who’ve had one child with a neural defect can lower their risk of having another by 72 percent by taking folic acid supplements.

Other multi vitamins
Iron Your body needs iron to make haemoglobin (the oxygen carrying part of the red blood cells). During pregnancy the amount of blood expands in your body so that you have 50 percent more than normal. You need to keep up your intake of iron to support the extra amount of blood in your body, so add iron-rich foods like kidneys, fish, egg yolks, red meat, cereals, molasses, apricots and haricot beans into your diet.
Calcium Your baby’s bones begin to form between four to six weeks and calcium helps to make them strong. If your developing baby doesn’t get enough nutrients it will show no mercy and take your supply, leaving you calcium deficient. Make sure you’re eating plenty of dairy products, leafy green vegetables, Soya, broccoli and any fish containing bones like sardines.
Other antenatal supplements If you eat a good diet, you’ll probably be getting enough nutrients and vitamins from your foods. Specific pregnancy multivitamins are available if you think you need them (if you are vegetarian or suffer from bad morning sickness) but it’s best to discuss with your doctor first.

If you have any unanswered questions, use our answers page to gain wisdom from other mums or our resident experts for this or any other queries you may have.

The information in this feature is intended for educational purposes only. If you have any concerns about your health, the health of your child or the health of someone you know, please consult with a doctor or other healthcare professional.