Medication and Vitamin Use in Pregnancy

Use of medication, except for supplements such as folic acid, iron and calcium - which are beneficial, should be avoided as much as possible during pregnancy. This is because of the risk that some medication may have adverse effects on the developing organs of the baby. After the medication is taken, the active ingredient that mixes with the mother's blood can pass to the baby through the organ called the placenta, which feeds the baby. The harmful effects of medication on the baby may differ depending on the type and dose of the medication taken and the developmental period of the baby.

However, if necessary, medication can be used during pregnancy. The important thing in this regard is that the medicine to be used must be prescribed by the doctor. As a result of experimental studies on animals and humans, medication is classified as A, B, C, D and X groups depending on their possible harmful effects on pregnancy. It may be possible for pregnant women to use medication up to category C.

Vitamins To Take During Pregnancy

Expectant mothers should eat natural foods and supplement their health and the development of their babies with vitamins, in order to protect their immunity during pregnancy. Taking vitamin supplements during pregnancy is effective in preventing problems such as breastfeeding, puerperal and postpartum depression, as well as ensuring a healthy pregnancy and healthy development of the baby.

Expectant mothers should start using 400 mcg of folic acid per day 2 months before they start planning a pregnancy. Mineral supplements such as Omega-3, multivitamins, magnesium, calcium and zinc should be started in the second trimester. It is beneficial for vegetarian expectant mothers or those do not consume much meat to use vitamin B12 supplements. On the other hand, all vitamins and their doses should be determined by the doctor specifically for each expectant mother.