There are a few supplements that are recommended in pregnancy, some for everyone and some for people that are at risk of or currently deficient in some things
Folic Acid
This is a substance that helps baby’s neural tube to close correctly, lowering the risk of spina bifida. It is recommended from 4 weeks pre-conception to the end of the 12th week of pregnancy.
Iodine
This is an essential micronutrient that is found in low levels in Aotearoa’s soil, so supplementation is recommended as it is important for baby’s brain development. It is recommended from the moment your pregnancy is confirmed until you finish breastfeeding, or until baby is born if you choose not to breastfeed.
Vitamin D
A vitamin that is made in the body after sun exposure, up to 1/3 of people in Aotearoa are deficient in it, especially in winter. It is important for building baby’s immune system, so if you are at risk or you have low Vitamin D, supplementation is recommended.
Vitamin B12
This vitamin is mostly found in animal food sources, so if you are vegetarian or vegan, you will be offered a vitamin B12 test to make sure you have enough, and offered a supplement if you are deficient.
Iron
If your blood tests show that your iron stores are low, then you will be offered iron supplementation as having low iron can cause anaemia, which makes you very tired in pregnancy. Low iron may also affect your recovery after you lose blood at birth.