Vitamins To Avoid During Pregnancy: What You Need To Know

Pregnancy is a time when you want to be extra careful about what you put into your body—including supplements. While prenatal vitamins are designed to support you and your baby safely, some vitamins and nutrients can be harmful if taken in the wrong forms or doses.

This guide covers the key vitamins and supplements you should avoid or approach with caution during pregnancy, so you can protect your health and your baby’s development.

Why Some Vitamins Are Risky In Pregnancy

During pregnancy, certain vitamins can be toxic or cause developmental problems if taken in excess. The developing baby is especially sensitive to high doses of fat-soluble vitamins and some herbs or non-standard supplements.

It’s important to choose pregnancy-specific supplements that avoid these risks and to always consult your healthcare professional before taking anything new.

Vitamins To Avoid Or Limit

1. Vitamin A (Retinol and Retinyl Esters)

• Why avoid: High doses of preformed vitamin A (retinol) can cause birth defects, including malformations of the brain, heart, and lungs.
• What to check: Avoid supplements that list retinol, retinyl acetate, or retinyl palmitate at high doses. 

2. Herbal Supplements And Botanicals

• Why avoid: Many herbs haven’t been tested for safety in pregnancy and can cause uterine contractions, bleeding, or other risks.
  
• Common herbs to avoid: Dong quai, aloe vera (oral), black cohosh, ginseng, licorice root, and others.
  
• Tip: Always check with your healthcare provider before taking any herbal supplements.
  

3. High Doses Of Iron Without Medical Advice

• Why avoid: Excess iron can cause digestive issues and, in rare cases, toxicity. Supplement only if advised by your healthcare provider or if a deficiency is diagnosed.
  

4. Vitamin B6 Overuse

• Why avoid: Vitamin B6 helps with nausea but very high doses (above 100 mg daily) can cause nerve damage. Stay within recommended pregnancy doses.

What About Other Supplements?

• Calcium and Magnesium: Generally safe and recommended in pregnancy supplements.
• Omega-3 (DHA): Safe and beneficial when taken within recommended doses.
• Folic Acid: Essential in early pregnancy, safe at recommended doses.
  

How to Stay Safe

• Choose pregnancy-specific supplements that avoid harmful ingredients and have correct doses.
• Avoid combining multiple branded supplements without guidance.
• Consult your doctor or midwife before starting or stopping any supplement.
• Check labels carefully for vitamin forms and doses.
  

Final Thoughts

Pregnancy is a time to nourish and protect both you and your baby. Avoiding certain vitamins and supplements that can cause harm is just as important as taking the right ones. Stick to expert-recommended prenatal vitamins and seek professional advice for any additional supplements.

Looking for safe, expert-formulated prenatal supplements?
Explore Nurture’s range designed with your and your baby’s safety in mind.