Everything You Need to Know:

Pregnancy supplements

Pregnancy is an exciting journey filled with many questions—especially when it comes to your health and nutrition. One of the most common is: What pregnancy supplements should I take, and why? And there are so many myths that surround the answer, that we debunk throughout this guide and in our: Pregnancy Supplement Myths: What You Need to Know article. This guide will help you understand the role of pregnancy supplements, why they matter, and how to choose the right ones to support both you and your baby—every step of the way.

Red and clear capsules with a brown powder filling held in a hand

Why Do You Need Pregnancy Supplements?

During pregnancy, your body works overtime to support the growth and development of your baby. This increased demand means you need more of certain nutrients than usual. While a balanced diet is essential, it can be challenging to meet these higher nutritional needs through food alone.

Pregnant lady holding a glass standing in a kitchen looking towards a window flooded with light with her eyes closed, holding her bump.

What are the benefits of pregnany supplements?

Pregnancy supplements help to fill these nutritional gaps by providing key vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients in the right amounts to help:

  • Support your baby’s brain, bone, and organ development

  • Reduce the risk of birth defects and pregnancy complications

  • Maintain your energy, immune health, and emotional wellbeing

As Professor Mark Johnson, Consultant Obstetrician and Founder of Nurture, explains:

"I see many women who are doing all the right things—eating well, staying active, looking after themselves—yet they’re still deficient in key nutrients. It’s not a reflection of their effort. Pregnancy increases your nutritional requirements, and supplements help bridge the gap to protect both maternal and foetal health. A good quality supplement with clinically effective levels of ingredients can make all the difference."

Pregnant woman in a relaxed pose, sitting in a rattan chair and wearing a white off-shoulder dress. She is gently cradling her belly in a warm, natural setting with woven rattan panels, potted plants, and lit candles, creating a serene and cozy atmosphere.

Essential Nutrients Commonly Found in Pregnancy Supplements

Some of the most well-researched and essential nutrients during pregnancy include:

Folate (Folic Acid or Methylated Folate):

Crucial for preventing neural tube defects and supporting DNA synthesis. Often taken before conception and during the first trimester.

Iron:

Supports increased blood volume and helps prevent anaemia.

Vitamin D:

Helps calcium absorption for bone development and supports immune function.

Calcium & Magnesium:

Support baby’s bone growth and maternal muscle function.

Omega-3 DHA:

Essential for your baby’s brain and eye development.

Choline:

Important for baby’s brain development and cell structure.

Iodine:

Supports thyroid function and early brain development.

Explore more: What Are the Most Important Nutrients in Pregnancy Vitamins?