What vitamins are needed in the 1st trimester. Rating of vitamins for pregnant women. Review of necessary and useful pharmacy vitamins for pregnant women: how to choose

Vitamins are biologically active compounds that have a diverse structure. They are coenzymes of biochemical reactions occurring in the body. During pregnancy, the need for vitamins increases due to the growth and development of the fetus and increased stress on many systems of the mother. But whether it is necessary to take vitamins during pregnancy remains controversial to this day.

Useful properties

Research shows that most women become pregnant due to a deficiency of many vitamins and microelements. This deficiency has to be replenished during gestation. At this time, the need for group B, C, and folic acid increases significantly. At the same time, the need for microelements increases.

The shortage may not be felt, but it will affect the developing child. It has been proven that a lack of folic acid early stages leads to the development of neural tube defects. Therefore, even before conception, doctors recommend including vitamin complexes containing folic acid, as well as tocopherol, in the preconception plan. It improves egg maturation and promotes fertilization.

The expectant mother must prepare the body for pregnancy and create reserves of biologically active substances. This will improve the functioning of various enzyme systems and metabolism. The level of hemoglobin is associated with a sufficient amount of vitamins B₆ and B₁₂. With a deficiency, aplastic anemia develops, which will complicate the course of pregnancy.

1st trimester

Doctors recommend taking vitamins during the trimesters of pregnancy. The 1st trimester is associated with the laying of all organs, the beginning of formation nervous system. The continued viability of the fetus and the preservation of pregnancy depend on how correctly this process proceeds.

It must be remembered that the development of the embryo does not depend solely on the content of vitamins in the diet, and in the presence of genetic abnormalities or chromosomal rearrangements, the situation cannot be corrected by increasing the active substances in the diet.

Vitamins are prescribed by the gynecologist depending on the trimester and individual characteristics, taking into account risk factors. The main drugs in the initial period are:

  • folic acid– В₉;
  • tocopherol acetate – E;
  • retinol – A;

Is it necessary to take vitamins in the 1st trimester of pregnancy if a woman eats well? The need for them during pregnancy increases several times, so it is impossible to cover it with food alone.

Folic acid

Contained in any vegetables with natural green in ripe form, as well as leafy greens (parsley, spinach, dill). It has even been found in animal products, which is why folate is now said to be ubiquitous. But its peculiarity is its tendency to decay quickly. If lettuce or cabbage is just picked from the garden, then we can talk about good saturation with useful substances. But in vegetables that are stored in the refrigerator or at room temperature, the breakdown of folates accelerates; after just a few hours, their content is reduced by half. When heated to 60 degrees, after just a few minutes only traces of folic acid remain.

Folacin is necessary for the division of all cells of the body, both in the expectant mother and in the developing fetus. It is involved in the process of DNA replication (doubling), which occurs during cell division. Red bone marrow, as the most actively dividing structure, suffers most from a lack of folate. For a woman, this is manifested by the development of megaloblastic anemia.

But the state of pronounced deficiency and severe consequences B₉ deficiencies are rarely observed. Normal intestinal microflora is involved in the synthesis of this substance, as well as several others. With dysbiosis, when the content of beneficial bacteria in the intestines is disrupted, the amount of folate in the body may decrease, which, together with insufficient intake from food, will lead to the development of anemia. It cannot be cured with iron supplements alone.

The dose of folic acid for those planning a pregnancy is 400-800 mcg. But doctors recommend sticking to the maximum dosage: this will saturate the body before conception. If conception is successful, the dosage is not reduced. Those who have not had children with neural tube pathology or spontaneous early miscarriages in previous pregnancies are allowed to take 800-1000 mcg per day. For women with a history of the listed pathologies, the dose is increased several times.

You can read more about why you need to take folic acid when planning a pregnancy, as well as about prescribed medications and options for taking them.

Pregnant women with diagnosed epilepsy who must take anticonvulsants should take an increased dose of folate. Carbamazepine and valproic acid significantly reduce the amount of B₉ in the body.

Folic acid is safe. It is water-soluble, and if there is excess in the body, it is easily excreted by the kidneys. No signs of overdose were reported.

Tocopherol

The second most important substance for pregnant women is tocopherol (E). This is a fat-soluble compound whose name translates as “progeny-bearing.” Its function in the body is:

  • protecting cell membranes from the damaging effects of oxygen;
  • preservation of vitamins A and C in unoxidized form;
  • inclusion of selenium in coenzymes;
  • immune protection;
  • reducing the need of cells for oxygen and protection from hypoxia;
  • protein synthesis and tissue regeneration;
  • stimulation of hormone production.

Lack of tocopherol affects the appearance and condition of the skin, nails and hair. They become dull, lifeless, hair splits, and nails break easily. Therefore, if you have dry skin, it is necessary to additionally include tocopherol in your diet.

During the gestational period, additional amounts of tocopherol are required. It has the following effect:

  • improves hormonal levels;
  • promotes egg maturation;
  • reduces risk;
  • increases the chance of conception;
  • eliminates symptoms;
  • promotes the formation of the placenta;
  • reduces risk.

The dosage of vitamin E in capsules is 100-200 mg per day. It is recommended that two spouses start taking it at the planning stage, 2 months before conception. The woman continues to take tocopherol after confirmation of pregnancy for 2-3 months.

Tocopherol (vitamin E) is the second most important vitamin (after folic acid) for pregnant women.

Tocopherol acetate is a fat-soluble substance. Therefore, there is a danger of its accumulation. But the toxic effect appears when the daily norm is exceeded by 10-20 times. There may be a cumulative effect if the dosage is exceeded for a long time. Then the medicine is discontinued and Vikasol is prescribed to reduce the risk of bleeding.

Retinol

Vitamin A (retinol) is involved in many metabolic processes:

  • enzyme synthesis;
  • muscle tissue formation;
  • synthesis of sex hormones;
  • maintaining immunity due to the metabolism of interferons, lysozyme, immunoglobulin A;
  • activation of receptors for calcitriol (vitamin D₃);
  • production of retinal rhodopsin for twilight vision.

Experiments have shown that the most complete exclusion of retinol from the diet of animals of both sexes leads to the development of infertility. It is also needed for the normal development of the unborn child. But the need for vitamin A in women before and during pregnancy is not much different. In the 1st trimester, a sufficient amount comes from food. Large doses of retinoids are toxic to the fetus and can cause the development of heart defects and nervous system defects. Only in the second half of gestation and lactation does the need increase.

2nd trimester

After the formation of all organs of the fetus and placenta, the need for active substances changes. The 2nd trimester is a time of active child growth and skeletal development. Therefore, the need for calcium and substances involved in its metabolism increases.

After 20 weeks, it is recommended to take additional retinol. It is responsible for activating calciferol receptors, so a lack of the first will affect its action. Doctors prescribe 1-2 tablets of retinol, which corresponds to 3300-6600 IU.

Lack of vitamin D during pregnancy is manifested by impaired absorption of calcium. If this microelement is not supplied through food, the body begins to remove it from its own structures in order to provide for the growing fetus. Therefore, a pregnant woman may experience:

  • aching bones;
  • joint pain;
  • muscle cramps.

Calcium deficiency will also affect after pregnancy. For some, even during the gestation period, their teeth begin to actively deteriorate and crumble, and caries appears. Hair and nails also suffer from calcium deficiency.

It should be remembered that calcium is a component of the blood coagulation system; without it, complete clot formation is impossible. Therefore, a deficiency can lead to increased bleeding, which is especially dangerous during gestation.

A child with intrauterine D₃ deficiency may be predisposed to the development of rickets.

But not all pregnant women have obvious signs of calciferol deficiency. They are successfully synthesized in the skin under the influence of ultraviolet radiation. In some cases, this process may be disrupted:

  • among black people who for a long time lived in equatorial zones, but now live in temperate climates;
  • with a strict vegetarian diet;
  • in those who rarely see the sun or from regions located beyond the Arctic Circle.

Rules for taking vitamin D for pregnant women - 400-600 IU, or 10-15 mcg, is enough to cover the daily requirement.

3rd trimester

By the end of gestation, an increased need for A, E, D remains. Ascorbic acid is also recommended in the 3rd trimester. It is part of a complex of antioxidants that protect cells from the action of various endogenous oxidants. Vitamin C has the following effects:

  • strengthens the walls of blood vessels, reduces their fragility;
  • reduces bleeding;
  • strengthens the immune system;
  • promotes iron absorption.

For pregnant women who have to bear a child during a seasonal increase in the incidence of respiratory infections, it would not be amiss to include ascorbic acid in the diet. It is not possible to completely cover the body's expenses with food. Ascorbic acid, like folates, does not withstand exposure to air and heat; it begins to disintegrate at temperatures above 60 degrees, and after boiling it is completely absent.

Iron deficiency anemia may be caused by a violation of the supply of ferrum to the body. Its absorption is accelerated by simultaneous intake of ascorbic acid and inhibited by the presence of calcium. Therefore, in some complex vitamin preparations, these substances are combined depending on competition for absorption.

For pregnant women, regardless of trimester, vitamin B₁₂ (cyanocobolamine) is important. It is beneficial for the body with the following properties:

  • participation in the synthesis of DNA and RNA cells;
  • fatty acid metabolism;
  • protein synthesis;
  • red blood cell formation;
  • melatonin synthesis and regulation of sleep cycles;
  • maintaining the health of the reproductive system.

In pregnant women, a lack of cyanocobalamin leads to the development of diarrhea, which cannot be treated with iron supplements, sleep problems, nervousness, and memory impairment. The need increases in the following cases:

  • vegetarian diet;
  • diabetes mellitus;
  • alcohol consumption;
  • The age of the expectant mother is over 45 years.

The requirement during gestation and breastfeeding is the same and is 3.5 mg per day.

Vitamin B₆ is also often prescribed to pregnant women, but in combination with magnesium. These substances enhance each other's effects. They begin to be used in the 2-3 trimester to prevent pathology of the placenta, and also if there is a threat, magnesium in combination with B₆ reduces the tone of the uterus and helps prolong gestation.

Ways to fill the deficit

The doctor decides which vitamins are best to take during pregnancy, based on individual characteristics women. If the expectant mother has no complications, she has been identified with minimal or no risk in the development of fetal pathologies, then prophylactic doses of drugs are necessary. In case of detection of abnormalities, severe condition of the fetus, risk of premature birth and various diseases, increased doses of drugs may be required.

The regimen for taking vitamins during pregnancy may change. It should be remembered that you cannot combine B₆ and B₁₂, they enhance the allergenic effect of each other and can lead to the appearance of urticaria. A, E, C are complementary and have an antioxidant effect. Therefore, they are often used as a single drug.

Nutrition

Most doctors insist on the need for vitamin complexes, despite a balanced diet. The explanation for this is as follows:

  1. The amount of nutrients in food cannot cover the daily needs of even a non-pregnant woman. Not only the content of active substances matters, but also their absorption, which may be limited due to metabolic characteristics or certain diseases.
  2. IN winter time in vegetables and fruits, the amount of useful components is at a minimum level: folates and ascorbic acid have already oxidized by this point.
  3. Processing products before consumption leads to a significant loss of their beneficial properties.

There are also conditions that reduce intake nutrients from food or speed up their metabolism:

  • gastritis;
  • duodenitis;
  • diabetes mellitus;
  • acute or chronic infections;
  • liver pathologies;
  • colitis.

The use of vitamin complexes does not replace proper nutrition. Food contains essential peptides fatty acids, carbohydrates, without which life and development are impossible, as well as ballast substances necessary for normal digestion.

Medications

By using pharmaceutical drugs you can achieve the required concentration of vitamins in the diet and cover the daily requirement. Some doubt the necessity and effectiveness of synthetic drugs, but data from various studies show that without them it is impossible to provide a pregnant woman with the necessary substances.

Pharmacies offer many different brands, some of them are designed for the feeding period. They differ from each other in composition and dosage.

Elevit

One of the popular complexes for pregnant women is Elevit. Its feature is a sufficient amount of folic acid: a woman does not need to take it as a separate drug. “Elevit” will also be useful in case of premature birth; it contains an increased amount of magnesium. Useful property is also a high iron content, which is equivalent to a preventive dosage. But the complex does not contain iodine, which is necessary for the formation of the nervous system and thyroid gland of the fetus. Therefore, those to whom the doctor prescribed Elevit will have to take additional iodine from 22 weeks.

Alphabet

Separately, we can highlight the Alphabet vitamins. Their peculiarity is the division of active substances into different doses. For example, iron is supported by the action of ascorbic acid, magnesium - B₆, calcium - D₃, B₆ and B₁₂ are not taken in one tablet, which reduces the risk of developing allergies. The convenience is that if you are intolerant to a certain substance in the tablet, you can refuse to take it. But taking “Alphabet” is recommended for practically healthy women, without pregnancy complications or obstetric-gynecological history. The dosages in it are at the minimum for pregnant women.

Vitrum Prenatal Forte

The drug contains all the necessary microelements and vitamins, iodine is no exception. Its content is close to the daily requirement and no additional intake is required. The amount of folic acid is optimal for early gestation, and retinol is contained in a dose that is non-toxic to the fetus. The dosage of tocopherol has been increased. This combination of useful substances allows us to recommend this drug as a preconception preparation.

Pregnavite

The complex contains all the necessary substances in sufficient quantities, but the microelements contain only calcium and a small amount of iron. On the one hand, this can be considered a disadvantage, but on the other hand, if it is necessary to introduce iron into the diet, add iodine, magnesium, dosage adjustment will not be required taking into account the medications taken.

Materna

Contains a complete list of necessary substances, a sufficient amount of iodine. This drug should only be used after consulting a doctor. It contains increased content of retinol, tocopherol, and ascorbic acid. This is an antioxidant complex that will be useful for women with various chronic diseases. But at the same time, the risk of an allergic reaction increases.

The first months of embryo formation are the most important period of pregnancy. The expectant mother should change her lifestyle, improve her diet, and get rid of bad habits, since in the first trimester of pregnancy significant changes occur in her body that affect the intrauterine development of the child. During this period, the mother's body needs vitamins and minerals in large quantities. Moreover, with the growth and development of the embryo, the need for useful compounds increases.

If the diet of the expectant mother is rich in vitamins, fiber, proteins, biologically active substances, if the pregnant woman walks daily fresh air and does not forget about physical education, then bearing a child should be without complications. But expectant mothers living in high latitudes, who do not have the opportunity to enrich their diet with fresh and highly nutritious food, should definitely take vitamin and mineral complexes.

A list of vitamins and microelements that are of paramount importance for the mother’s body in the first trimester of pregnancy has been highlighted. A lack of these substances can cause serious abnormalities in the development of the embryo in the womb.

The most important vitamins and minerals in the first trimester

At each stage of intrauterine development, a child needs certain substances for the proper formation and functioning of organs and systems. In the first months of development, the embryo most of all needs the following substances:

  • folic acid (B 9);
  • ascorbic acid (C);
  • tocopherol (E);
  • retinol (A);
  • iodine;
  • calcium.

Below is information about the effects of the above beneficial substances on the body of the expectant mother and the child developing in the womb in the 1st trimester.

  1. Folic acid. This substance is necessary for the proper construction of the neural tube in the embryo, which is the basis for the further development of the brain and spinal cord. With a deficiency of vitamin B 9 during intrauterine development, the child develops severe anatomical defects, such as hydrocephalus and anencephaly. The lack of substance also negatively affects the physical condition of a pregnant woman. The expectant mother experiences abdominal pain, dizziness, pale skin, weakness, severe toxicosis, heavy breathing, enlarged spleen, and oral ulcers.
  2. Tocopherol. It is a strong antioxidant that prevents free radical attacks on the body of the mother and embryo. Vitamin E is also involved in the synthesis of hormones necessary to maintain pregnancy. Consequently, with a deficiency of the substance, the likelihood of miscarriage or fetal death increases.
  3. Ascorbic acid. Necessary for the proper construction of cartilage tissue of the embryo. In the early stages of pregnancy, vitamin C deficiency provokes a weakening of the maternal immune system and threatens the life of the fetus. Also, a lack of substance leads to iron deficiency anemia and worsening condition blood vessels in the mother, which increases the risk of spontaneous abortion.
  4. Retinol. An important substance during pregnancy, but requiring careful use. The dosage of vitamin A should be determined by a medical professional, taking into account diet and physical condition pregnant patient. In the first days of pregnancy, retinol is involved in the construction of placental tissue. The vitamin also has a beneficial effect on the mother’s condition: it maintains normal heart function and the structure of the mucous membranes, improves appearance skin, strengthens nail plates and hair follicles, normalizes sleep. But the daily dose of the substance should not exceed 3300 IU, otherwise the fetus may develop heart defects, nervous, urinary and reproductive systems, and limb defects.
  5. Iodine. This microelement is extremely necessary for pregnant women, as it supports the functioning of the thyroid gland, the main supplier of hormones. If a woman does not receive enough iodine in the first trimester of pregnancy, the risk of having a mentally retarded child increases. But it must be taken into account that by the 12th week of development, the thyroid gland of the embryo begins to independently synthesize hormones, using iodine found in the mother’s body. Therefore, taking medications based on this microelement should not be interrupted in the 2nd trimester.
  6. Calcium. This mineral is useful for the mother in that it strengthens bone tissue and muscle fibers and normalizes blood clotting. If a pregnant woman has a calcium deficiency, accompanied by muscle cramps, brittle nail plates and other symptoms, then the risk of giving birth to a rickety child increases. Rickets is a childhood disease in which bones grow incorrectly and the skeleton is deformed. Calcium takes part in the formation of muscle, bone, nerve, skin, eye and many other tissues of the embryo, so pregnant women must take the mineral, especially before the 12th week of gestation. But it should be borne in mind that excess calcium seriously harms the fetus’s body, so before taking mineral complexes it is recommended to consult a doctor and have your blood tested.

Daily dosage of vitamins for pregnant women

In the first trimester of pregnancy, a woman should consume the following amount of vitamins per day from any source:

  • retinol (A) – 0.8 mg;
  • ascorbic acid (C) – 70 mg;
  • tocopherol (E) – 10 mg;
  • calciferol (D) – 10 mg;
  • thiamine (B 1) – 1.5 mg;
  • riboflavin (B 2) – 1.6 mg;
  • pyridoxine (B 6) – 2.2 mg;
  • folic acid (B 9) – 0.4 mg;
  • cobalamin (B 12) – 0.002 mg;
  • phylloquinone (K) – 0.06 mg.

It is necessary to take vitamin complexes during pregnancy strictly following the instructions and not exceeding the recommended dosage.

Vitamin-rich foods

If finances and climatic conditions allow you to eat high-quality foods rich in vitamins and nutrients all year round, then it is not at all necessary for a pregnant woman to take vitamin and mineral complexes. Listed below are foods that are rich in certain nutrients.

  1. Retinol. It is found in large quantities in beef, poultry, fish liver, fish oil, carrots and other yellow and orange vegetables and root vegetables, sea buckthorn, and apricots. Please note that vitamin A is only fat soluble. That's why vegetable salads It is advisable to season with vegetable oil.
  2. Folic acid. It is rich in legumes, liver, citrus fruits, fresh herbs. Only part of the vitamin is absorbed from foods, which is insufficient for the body of a pregnant woman. Therefore, during pregnancy it is necessary to take medications with folic acid, even if the diet is correct and complete.
  3. Ascorbic acid. It is found in large quantities in citrus fruits and other fruits, sweet peppers, currants, rose hips, and fresh herbs.
  4. Tocopherol. They are rich in dairy products, vegetable oils, wheat sprouts, meat, fish, and nuts.
  5. Iodine. Contains in significant quantities in sea ​​fish and seafood, seaweed, iodized salt.
  6. Calcium. Rich sources of the mineral are dairy products, cabbage and other green vegetables, and nuts. But in order for the substance to be properly absorbed in the body, you cannot simultaneously consume foods rich in calcium and foods that interfere with the absorption of the mineral. Sweets and salty foods, rich pastries, and carbonated drinks interfere with the absorption of calcium.

Popular vitamin complexes for pregnant women

Pharmacies sell a large number of vitamin and mineral complexes intended for expectant mothers. Below is a list of drugs that are of the highest quality and most effective, according to customer reviews.

  1. Elevit Pronatal. A preparation containing 12 vitamins, 7 mineral elements. The composition contains vitamin B 9 and iron in optimal concentration. But there is no iodine in the composition, so medicine with this microelement will have to be purchased separately.
  2. . High-quality and popular vitamin complex. Iodine and folic acid in the composition of the drug are in a concentration equal to the daily intake of a pregnant woman.
  3. Pregnakea. A complex including 11 vitamins, 5 mineral elements. Folic acid is in optimal concentration. Iron is present in insufficient quantities, and iodine is not present, so preparations with these microelements will have to be purchased separately.
  4. . Available in tablet form different colors. A tablet of a certain color contains a specific set of compatible nutrients. The complex includes iron, calcium, iodine, and all vitamins.

If the instructions do not contain precise information on how to take the drug, then pregnant women usually take vitamins in the morning after breakfast. When taken in the morning, the vitamin preparation tones the female body for the whole day. Between courses of taking vitamins, you need to take breaks so that the body does not get used to the chemicals.

Can vitamins be harmful in the first trimester?

It is better that the expectant mother receives useful substances from food, and not from pharmaceuticals. The fact is that some medications can negatively affect the body of the mother and embryo in the first weeks of pregnancy. If a pregnant woman for some reason cannot do without vitamin complexes, then when purchasing medications she should carefully read chemical composition. It is better to buy drugs from well-known and reputable manufacturers who monitor the quality of their products.

Some doctors generally advise starting to take vitamin complexes only from the 12th week of pregnancy. Doctors explain their recommendation by the fact that the placenta, which filters harmful substances, traveling with the blood to the embryo, begins to form only at the end of the 1st trimester, and ends by the 16th week. There is an assumption that taking complex vitamin preparations in the first months of bearing a child can provoke early aging of the placenta. Therefore, it is advisable that the expectant mother, from the first days of pregnancy, consume as many fresh fruits and vegetables as possible, and not get carried away with pharmaceutical drugs.

Despite the fact that vitamins are necessary for the body of the mother and fetus, when they are consumed in excess, hypervitaminosis develops - a dangerous and unpleasant condition that causes many pathologies.

It should also be taken into account that pregnant women often have a tendency to allergies, including drug allergies. Therefore, expectant mothers suffering from allergic reactions should choose pharmaceuticals with extreme caution. It is worth coordinating your choice with the supervising doctor.

Even a completely healthy person always needs an additional nutritional complex of vitamins and minerals, especially an expectant mother. But are all organisms so useful? Can they harm the health of mother and baby? The first trimester of pregnancy is especially important, where the organs of the unborn child are formed and there is a high risk of pregnancy failure due to a lack of any substances.

The need to consume vitamins is difficult to question, because in the modern world of progress it is impossible to obtain sufficiently enriched and balanced food that is rich in vitamins and minerals. If you were systematically preparing for conception, then at the stage of pregnancy planning you were already faced with the need to use them.

But still, if you lead a healthy lifestyle, with daily physical activity and walks in the fresh air, sleep at least eight hours and avoid stress, then in the first stages of pregnancy you can easily do without a special complex of vitamins.

Only your doctor can prescribe and choose the right vitamins. They are usually prescribed after tests and all necessary studies have been completed.

    You can decide to take vitamins on your own if there is suddenly reason to believe that your lifestyle has deviations that are not typical for pregnant women. These include:
  • malnutrition;
  • if you have already had complications during pregnancy or even miscarriages;
  • you have previously suffered from vitamin deficiency;
  • if you are an old-time woman (over 30 years old).
    You can also highlight vitamins and substances that are extremely necessary in the first trimester to help the child develop and avoid pathologies. These substances can be obtained from foods or a balanced vitamin complex:
  • Firstly, this iodine. We all know that a large amount of iodine is found in sea ​​salt and fish, as well as algae. Iodine is important for the mental abilities of the unborn child and the formation of his bone skeleton. And another important fact is that iodine helps to avoid rapid weight gain for the expectant mother and maintain skin and hair in excellent condition.
  • Vitamin E necessary for the prevention of miscarriages. It should also be taken when planning pregnancy. We can find iodine in various vegetables, parsley, tomatoes, rose hips, as well as in sunflower oils, olive oil etc.
  • Folic acid, is probably the most important vitamin in the first trimester. This is a complex vitamin that is not so easy to get from food (liver, strawberries, legumes), but it is necessary for planning and development. Responsible for cell division and formation of the nervous system. The dosage of this vitamin can only be prescribed by a doctor, and it is better to get it from special vitamin complexes.
  • Vitamin C needed for the formation of the fertilized egg, as well as to protect and maintain the immunity of the expectant mother.

The exact and necessary dosage can only be determined by your doctor, based on tests. There are only generally accepted daily requirements for vitamins.


    After passing the tests and passing all the necessary studies (we talked about them earlier), your doctor sees your individual need for vitamins and prescribes a vitamin complex based on your indicators. Generally accepted standards look something like this:
  • daily requirement of vitamin A - 800 mcg;
  • vitamin D and E - only 10 mcg each;
  • vitamin K - 65 mcg;
  • to support immunity, vitamin C - 70 mcg;
  • vitamin B1 and B2 - 1.5 mcg each;
  • vitamin B6 and B12 - 2.2 mcg each;
  • folic acid, or in other words vitamin B9 - 400 µg;
  • vitamins PP - 17 mcg per day.

When taking vitamins for pregnant women, the rule “everything should be in moderation” applies. When planning a pregnancy, doctors also prescribe vitamin supplements, but they advise stopping taking them a month before the expected conception for a reason.

An excess of vitamins in the body, as a rule, leads to premature aging of the placenta. It is also always worth remembering that absolutely all foods eaten by the expectant mother reach the baby and affect its development.

Vitamins in the second trimester of pregnancy, what you need to know

In the second trimester, active acquaintance between mother and child begins, the first movement and determination of the baby’s gender. Explaining the need and need for vitamins in the second trimester of pregnancy is very simple with the growth and development of the child. The mother's body needs a daily balanced and, most importantly, varied diet, which is enriched with essential vitamins and minerals.


All useful substances and microelements come to the child through the mother, and into her, accordingly, through food. The principle of vitamins that a girl needs in the second trimester of pregnancy is the same as during the first trimester (we talked about it a little higher).

    To the necessary vitamins from the first trimester we will add:
  • calcium will help the formation of the skeleton. Calcium has a beneficial effect on the functioning of the endocrine system and kidneys. You can find it in dairy products, broccoli, cabbage;
  • Iron can be obtained from apples and is essential for maintaining muscle tone and preventing anemia.

As in any other trimester, before adding or subtracting the daily intake of vitamins, it is worth undergoing examinations and tests at the clinic; only on their basis can the doctor reduce or increase the dose.

The shelves of pharmacies and Internet pages are saturated with vitamins for pregnant women. We will not advertise any specific drug.

    Separately, it is worth saying that any pregnant girl can receive free vitamins, for this she needs to know about the existence of laws Russian Federation:
  • Decree of the Government of the Russian Federation dated December 29, 2007;
  • Order No. 748 of 2008 “on drug provision for pregnant women”;
  • Order of the Ministry of Health No. 72 of 02/01/2011.

    Currently, based on all the above regulations, a pregnant woman has the right to receive vitamins such as:
  • folic acid tablets;
  • vitrum vitamin E;
  • doppelhertz;
  • phenyuls complex;
  • revits in jelly beans;
  • undevit in dragees;
  • giksovit;
  • iodamarin;
  • iodine balance;
  • multivitamins in tablets;
  • Vitrum tablets;
  • koplevit (any vitamins from the koplevit complex);
  • multi-tabs (any vitamins from the complex);
  • supradin tablets;
  • elevit prenatal;
  • megadyne,
  • multimax.


Vitamins for pregnant women in the 1st trimester- This is a necessary part of the nutrition of the expectant mother. The first weeks of pregnancy are associated with the woman's awareness of her condition. This is a very exciting period in a woman’s life, which implies the beginning of a new stage in the development of the family. To maintain the health of the mother's body during this period and to ensure the normal development of the unborn child, it is important to take vitamin complexes.

The best prenatal vitamins for the 1st trimester are the nutrients a woman gets from food. However, in order to provide the body with the required amount of nutrients, the expectant mother must consume from 5 to 7 kilograms of food per day, and this is practically impossible. It is for this purpose that they are appointed norms of vitamins for pregnant women in the 1st trimester - this eliminates nutritional deficiencies, normalizes fetal development and helps the female body fight the unpleasant symptoms of pregnancy, which are often observed in the first weeks.

Specifics of the course of pregnancy in the 1st trimester

A good complex of vitamins for pregnant women in the 1st trimester not only helps the fetus develop normally, but also alleviates the symptoms of new processes in the woman’s body. Firstly, this concerns toxicosis. Despite the fact that some are lucky enough not to experience nausea and vomiting, most pregnant women associate toxicosis with a real nightmare, as it causes a lot of discomfort. In addition to nausea, vomiting, increased sensitivity to aromas and changes in taste preferences, pregnant women often complain of drowsiness, general fatigue, and sudden changes in mood. This is all explained by changes in hormonal levels - after all, it grows and develops inside the womb. new life, which invariably affects the maternal body. And this is not to mention the enlargement of the mammary glands, swelling of the legs, and sometimes dizziness. This is where pregnancy vitamins come to the rescue.

The best vitamins for pregnant women in the 1st trimester, the rating of which can be found today on any specialized web resource, help the body fight the manifestations of toxicosis, one of the reasons for which is nutritional deficiency.

And now the main question: which vitamins for pregnant women in the 1st trimester to choose, and what should be contained in the pharmacy complex? Here, the help of a specialist is absolutely necessary - only an obstetrician can prescribe the necessary drug to the expectant mother and give recommendations regarding the diet.

It is strictly contraindicated to prescribe one or another nutritional supplement to yourself - in an effort to provide the baby with everything necessary during intrauterine development, you can cause harm by oversaturation of some substances and lack of others.

The necessary complex of nutrients in the 1st trimester of pregnancy

The balance of nutrients has a beneficial effect on the body of any person, let alone the expectant mother, who must provide nutrients not only for herself, but also for her offspring. The first ones in the list of vitamins and minerals are B vitamins, especially folic acid, iodine, zinc, calcium, vitamin A, lutein, rutoside. It is these components that should be included in pharmaceutical preparations for pregnant women prescribed for use in the first weeks of pregnancy.

Folic acid

The same vitamin B9. Leader in the list of nutrients for pregnant women. The nutrient is an active participant in the processes that form the organs of the cardiovascular system and the central nervous system of the fetus. Vitamin deficiency can cause miscarriage and developmental abnormalities. You can get the right dose of folic acid from food - it is found in abundance in leafy greens, apples, and liver.

Iodine

Everyone knows that iodine has a beneficial effect on the organs of the endocrine system and is effective means prevention of thyroid pathologies. A sufficient amount of iodine in the body stimulates both the physical and mental development of the unborn child, promotes the synthesis of brain tissue, and strengthens bones. Due to increased pollution environment Iodine should be consumed additionally in the form of food supplements - it also serves as protection against background radiation. It is found in large quantities in seafood and figs.

B vitamins

A lack of B vitamins can lead to the development of congenital pathologies of the cardiovascular system. A sufficient supply of B12 increases the absorption of folic acid and also serves to prevent anemia. B6 is an effective remedy for toxicosis.

Zinc

According to statistics, most pregnant women suffer from zinc deficiency. This substance takes part in processes at the cellular level, and its deficiency provokes low birth weight of the fetus and the development of pathologies. Zinc is a participant in the regeneration processes of bone tissue, and is also a natural immunomodulator.

Calcium

Calcium deficiency leads to brittle bones; its normal concentration must be maintained in both the child and the mother. The need for nutrients increases significantly by the 2nd trimester of pregnancy. A lack of calcium can manifest itself as a violation of the integrity of teeth, brittleness and hair loss, and blood pressure disorders. Calcium can be obtained in sufficient quantities from dairy products.

Vitamin A

Retinol is a nutrient whose intake should be strictly regulated. Excessive dosage of vitamin A for pregnant women in the 1st trimester threatens the development of fetal abnormalities. However, vitamin A deficiency leads to inadequate development of visual organs and bone tissue.

Lutein

Due to a decrease in the quality of blood supply to organs due to vasoconstriction during pregnancy, expectant mothers often complain of impaired vision. Lutein helps get rid of this problem - the nutrient stimulates the synthesis of fetal brain cells, supports the development of the baby's intelligence, and also has a beneficial effect on the mother's body.

Rutoside

Rutin is a remedy against edema, which poses a real problem for expectant mothers. An increase in the load on the body provokes vascular malfunctions, which requires additional support. Rutoside increases the turgor of capillary walls, reduces the likelihood of venous blood stagnation, and reduces swelling of the legs.

Diet for pregnant women in the 1st trimester

From the moment of conception, the female body begins to undergo restructuring, which manifests itself in changes in taste preferences. Often those foods that a woman had a craving for during pregnancy begin to cause disgust, and those that she had not previously eaten begin to arouse interest. No matter how incredible the gastronomic wishes of the expectant mother may seem, her diet should be balanced and rich in nutrients, excluding harmful foods.

During pregnancy, it is recommended to refrain from eating fatty and heavy foods. At the same time, meat must be present in the daily menu - protein is a source for the synthesis of new tissues. If you have an aversion to any foods, they can be replaced alternative options– boiled eggs, cottage cheese, tofu cheese, legumes.

Constipation is a common occurrence in the first weeks of pregnancy. The introduction of foods containing a large amount of fiber into the diet helps to alleviate the condition of the future mother: vegetables, fruits, whole grains.

Overeating during pregnancy is excluded - despite the often uncontrollable desires for food, the expectant mother must take care of her body, which nourishes the fetus. Meals should be portioned. Also, do not forget about the amount of liquid, which can be fresh juices, various compotes, yogurt, clean water. It is better to avoid tea, coffee and carbonated drinks altogether.

The choice of vitamin complexes in the 1st trimester of pregnancy

Despite the content of a large amount of vitamins in foods, during pregnancy, starting from the early stages, the mother’s body must be “recharged” with pharmaceutical complexes of nutrients - this will eliminate nutritional deficiency and ensure normal development of the fetus. When choosing vitamins, you should pay attention to the most popular complexes that are in demand among pregnant women:

  • Elevit Pronatal– among the components of the drug are folic acid, iron and other vitamins and minerals. Iodine is not included in the complex. Reception is possible both during pregnancy and during lactation;
  • Alphabet– vitamins for pregnant women are presented in multi-colored capsules for ease of administration. Each tablet of the corresponding color contains a set of minerals or vitamins necessary for the normal development of the fetus and the health of the mother’s body;
  • Femibion– is a complete complex of nutrients that replenishes nutritional deficiencies in the body of the mother and fetus;
  • Materna– the drug contains a complex of 10 vitamins, including folic acid, as well as iodine, which serves as protection against background radiation and promotes the formation of immunity;
  • Pregnakea– among the components of the drug are folic acid, necessary for the normal development of the nervous system of the fetus, as well as iron, which normalizes the functioning of the cardiovascular system. In this case, it is recommended to take additional iron, since its dose in the complex is underestimated.

The choice of vitamins in the early stages of pregnancy must be approached with great responsibility - from the moment of conception, the mother’s body serves as a source of the formation of new life. The expectant mother must provide required level nutrients for two at once - to support your body and provide resources for the normal development of the fetus.