Pregnancy is a time of profound change, and what you put into your body is more important than ever. Not all supplements are safe during pregnancy and while some can support a healthy pregnancy, others may pose risks to both the mother and developing fetus. It's crucial to understand which supplements are beneficial and which ones should be avoided. In this guide, we’ll explore the supplements that are considered safe during pregnancy, as well as those that are contraindicated. Before diving into the details, it’s also helpful to familiarize yourself with the five-letter classification system developed by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), which assesses the safety of prescription medications, over-the-counter drugs, and supplements for pregnant individuals.
Here are some commonly used supplements and their category:
Safe:
| Supplement | Pregnancy Category | Lactation Category |
| Garlic | A | C |
| Echinacea | A | C |
| Licorice | A | C |
| Cranberry | A | C |
| Chamomile | A | C |
| Korean Red Ginseng | A | C |
| Raspberry Leaf | A | C |
| Ginger | A | C |
| Boswelia | B1 | C |
| Turmeric | A | C |
| Passionflower | B1 | C |
| Siberan Ginseng | B1 | C |
| St. John's Wort | B1 | CC |
| Valerian | B1 | CC |
Supplements that are safe but use with caution:
| Supplement | Pregnancy Category | Lactation Category |
| Marshmallow | B2 | C |
| Celery Seed | B2 | CC |
| Bacopa | B2 | C |
| Calendula | B2 | C |
| Black Cohosh | B2 | SD |
| Globe Artichoke | B2 | C |
| California Poppy | B2 | CC |
| Eyebright | B2 | C |
| Fennel | B3 | C |
| Devils Claw | B2 | C |
| Hops | B2 | CC |
| Black Walnut | B2 | SD |
| Lemon Balm | B2 | C |
| Peppermint | B2 | CC |
| Lavender | B2 | C |
Contraindicated:
| Supplement | Pregnancy Category | Lactation Category |
| Arnica | X | X |
| Blue cohosh | D | X |
| Berberine | C | SD |
| Goldenseal | C | SD |
| Lycopus | C | X |
| Poke root | D | X |
| Jamaica Dogwood | D | SD |
| Sage | C | X |
| Cat's Claw | D | CC |
| Wormwood | D | X |
While supplements can play an important role in supporting a healthy pregnancy, it’s essential to approach them with caution. Always consult with a healthcare provider before introducing any new supplement into your routine, as they can help ensure it’s safe for both you and your baby. By understanding the risks and benefits, and staying informed about the safety classifications of various supplements, you can make empowered decisions that promote a healthy pregnancy and a positive outcome for both mother and child.
To learn more about prenatal vitamins click here: Which Prenatal supplement is best for you?
