Doctors recommend increasing certain vitamins and minerals while you are pregnant. But is vitamin E one of them? Is vitamin E safe during pregnancy?
Should pregnant women take vitamin E supplements?
According to a 2015 analysis of studies reported in a Cochrane analysis, taking vitamin E while pregnant may not be a good idea. The Cochrane analysis included 17 trials with about 22,000 patients. It was found that pregnant women taking vitamin E showed no improvement in their rates of:
- Stillbirth
- Death of infants during the first 28 days
- Intrauterine slowed growth
- Premature birth
- Preeclampsia – high blood pressure, water retention, swelling, risk of convulsions
- Placental abruption – premature separation of the placenta from the uterus
Women taking vitamin E supplements had an increased risk of premature rupture of membranes. In other words, their water broke early, which can lead to infection, premature labor, and fetal distress. No benefits from vitamin E supplements were seen, and only possible risk was found.
What is the current guidance for vitamins during pregnancy?
Current guidance from the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) lists the following vitamins and minerals as important for a healthy pregnancy:
- Calcium
- Iron
- Iodine
- Choline
- Vitamin A
- Vitamin C
- Vitamin D
- Vitamin B6
- Vitamin B12
- Folic acid
ACOG does not list vitamin E in its “Key Vitamins and Minerals During Pregnancy,” meaning it is not a vitamin you need more of while pregnant. This is because most pregnant women get plenty of vitamin E from a balanced diet, and there is no evidence to suggest that additional supplementation is beneficial.
Is a vitamin E supplement recommended for American women?
While vitamin E supplements may still benefit women with a vitamin E deficit or in women in developing countries who may be malnourished, it is not recommended for most American women during pregnancy. Instead, eating a balanced diet will provide the vitamin E you and your baby need, putting you in control of your health and your baby’s health.
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For personalized medical advice on vitamin intake during pregnancy, QuickMD’s telemedicine urgent care services are here to provide you with the reassurance and confidence you need. Consult with a QuickMD provider today to ensure a healthy pregnancy.
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