Vitamins and supplements in pregnancy

Folic Acid

Folic acid is a vitamin that helps your baby grow in the first few weeks of pregnancy. It can help stop problems like spina bifida, which affects the baby’s spine.

It is best to take 400 micrograms (mcg) of folic acid every day when you are trying to have a baby and until you are 12 weeks pregnant.

If you are already pregnant and haven’t started taking it, start as soon as you can.

Folic acid is in most pregnancy vitamins. You can buy these in supermarkets or pharmacies. Some people can get free vitamins through the Healthy Start scheme.

Some people need a higher dose of folic acid (5mg). A doctor or midwife will tell you if this is right for you.

Vitamin D

Vitamin D helps keep your bones, teeth, and muscles strong. It also helps your baby’s bones grow well during pregnancy.

Most people are told to take 10 micrograms (mcg) of vitamin D each day.

Your body usually gets vitamin D from sunlight. But if you are pregnant, you may need more help from a vitamin supplement.

Vitamin D is in most pregnancy vitamins, or you can buy it on its own.

Some people might need more vitamin D – for example, if your skin is covered most of the time (like when wearing a Hijab). Ask your doctor or midwife what is right for you.