Prenatal & Pregnancy

39 products formulated for pregnancy and trying to conceive - prenatal multivitamins, folic acid, vitamin D and live cultures, in capsules, tablets and a liquid. Brands include Viridian, Biocare, Natural Health Practice, HealthAid, Fruitful, WholyMe and Optibac.

Folic acid and vitamin D: the NHS advice

The NHS advises 400 micrograms of folic acid daily from before conception until the 12th week of pregnancy, and 10 micrograms of vitamin D daily throughout pregnancy and while breastfeeding. Folate contributes to maternal tissue growth during pregnancy. Some women are advised to take a higher dose of folic acid - your midwife or GP will tell you if that applies to you.

Why prenatal formulas exclude vitamin A

High intakes of retinol - the animal form of vitamin A - can harm a developing baby, which is why prenatal multivitamins are formulated without it and why cod liver oil is not recommended in pregnancy. If you are using a general multivitamin rather than a prenatal one, check the label for retinol before continuing.

What else is in this collection?

Iron, which is commonly needed in pregnancy but should follow a blood test rather than being taken speculatively. Omega-3 from fish or algae, where DHA contributes to the maintenance of normal brain function. And live culture products formulated for pregnancy, such as Optibac Pregnancy and Biocare Pregnancy BioFlora.

Talk to your midwife

Please use this collection as somewhere to buy what you have been advised to take, rather than somewhere to decide what to take. Your midwife or GP knows your history, and several ingredients sold elsewhere in this shop - including a number of herbs - are not suitable during pregnancy.

Food supplements should not be used as a substitute for a varied and balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle.