Do I need to take pregnancy multivitamins?

Pregnancy multivitamins are expensive, and some contain around 20 vitamins and minerals. It is fine to take a multivitamin if you want to, but research has shown that it is not necessary. 

Buying only the supplements you need, unbranded, from a supermarket or pharmacy, is usually cheaper and they work just as well.

The key thing is taking the specific supplements you need and eating a healthy, balanced diet.

If you do take a multivitamin, make sure that it does not contain vitamin A, as too much can harm your baby. 

Vital pregnancy supplements

It can be tempting to go for multivitamin products that are branded ‘for pregnancy’. In reality, buying the specific unbranded supplements you need can be cheaper but provide you and your baby with everything you need. 

There are 2 vital pregnancy supplements that are recommended in pregnancy, vitamin D and folic acid. You should take vitamin D throughout your pregnancy. 

It is recommended to start taking folic acid when trying for a baby or as soon as you find out you are pregnant. 

You should continue taking it for the first 12 weeks of pregnancy. If you buy these supplements together, a month's supply will typically cost around £3. If you are eligible, you can get both vitamin D and folic acid for free on the Healthy Start scheme.

In most cases, eating a balanced diet during pregnancy, along with folic acid and vitamin D supplements ensures the best possible health for you and your baby. 

Plant-based or vegan diets can be healthy during pregnancy, but it is important to make sure you get enough iodine and vitamin B12. You can find foods that are fortified with iodine and vitamin B12 and it is also a good idea to take a supplement. Find out more about having a plant-based or vegan diet and pregnancy.

If you are anaemic you may need to take an iron supplement, but your doctor will advise you and prescribe if necessary. 
 

Can I keep taking a multivitamin after 12 weeks if it contains folic acid? 

By 12 weeks, the baby's neural tube should have closed, so you don’t need to take folic acid. But you can carry on taking pregnancy multivitamin tablets even if they contain folic acid. Find out more about supplements in pregnancy.