PREGNANCY CARE

Calcium and Vitamin D
Calcium can't be absorbed without the presence of Vitamin D. When both nutrients are combined, the efficiency of absorption of both nutrients increases. Calcium is a mineral that naturally occurs in dairy foods and green leafy vegetables. Vitamin D3 is a form of Vitamin D - more specifically, the type that is produced via the action of sunlight on the skin. Both nutrients maintain bone density and bone strength, reducing symptoms of hip pain and brittle bones or teeth, both of which are common in pregnant women. If Calcium levels aren't sufficient for both the mother and foetus, the mother's Calcium stores will be utilised.

Folic Acid
Folic Acid is prescribed to every expectant mother across the UK. Ideally, the nutrient should be supplemented as soon as the menstrual cycle begins, but if this is not possible then Folic Acid should be supplemented as soon as possible. The body is unable to store or produce large quantities of Folic Acid, hence why supplementation is critical during pregnancy. The UK Department of Health recommends a minimum of 400mcg Folic Acid supplementation each day, until 12 weeks of pregnancy, otherwise known as the first trimester. It is vital that the mother consumes adequate amounts of Folic Acid so that her Folic Acid stores are also suitable for the foetus. Folic Acid is essential to prevent Neural Tube defects (NTDs) such as Spinda Bifida.

Iodine
Iodine is often extracted from seaweed, taking on a purple hue, although other good sources of Iodine include fish and dairy products. The name 'Iodine' originates from the Greek word for 'violet', iodes. Pregnant women require a higher intake of Iodine as Iodine is essential for the normal physical and mental growth of children.

Iron
Iron requirements are higher during pregnancy as the foetus receives its nutrition from its mother. Iron is needed for the normal formation of red blood cells which transport oxygen around the body, including to the foetus. Iron also contributes to the reduction of tiredness and fatigue. Some women report feeling more tired with pregnancy due to hormonal changes, hence why Iron stores are important to maintain throughout the pregnancy. Iron is available in two forms; haem and non-haem. Haem iron is more readily absorbed than non-haem, the latter of which is more easily absorbed with the presence of Vitamin C.

Vitamin B6 and Vitamin B12
B vitamins are well known to promote the normal function of energy production to reduce feelings of fatigue, amongst other health benefits that are specific to pregnancy. Pyridoxine is the form of Vitamin B6 used in our OV Pregnancy Care tablets, and Cyanocobalamin is the form of Vitamin B12. Vitamin B6 has proven to be effective in foetal health, including brain and nerve development. There has also been some evidence to suggest that Vitamin B6 helps with morning sickness. Similarly, Vitamin B12 also works to maintain a healthy foetal immune system. Both Vitamin B6 and B12 aid the normal formation of red blood cells which transfer oxygen around the body - the need for red blood cells increases with pregnancy to meet the foetus' requirements.