Can you take iron pills while pregnant?

Can you take iron pills while pregnant?

Yes, iron supplementation is safe during pregnancy and is, in fact, one of the most widely recommended supplements for pregnant women. Your iron needs increase significantly: the RDA jumps from 18 mg to 27 mg per day during pregnancy to support the dramatic expansion in blood volume and the baby's developing blood supply.

Most prenatal vitamins contain iron, so many pregnant women are already supplementing without taking separate iron pills. The question of whether additional iron supplementation is needed usually comes up when blood tests reveal iron deficiency or iron-deficiency anemia.

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Why iron matters so much during pregnancy

Blood volume increases by approximately 30-50% during pregnancy. Blood requires hemoglobin, and hemoglobin production depends on iron. The baby also draws iron from mom’s supply to build its own blood cells and iron stores that will last through the first several months of life.

Iron deficiency during pregnancy can lead to anemia, which is associated with preterm delivery, low birth weight, and significant maternal fatigue. Severe anemia can increase the risk of complications during delivery. Our clinical nutritionists also find that fatigue during postpartum is frequently associated with suboptimal iron levels, and when addressed, a noticeable improvement in energy is experienced.

The form of iron makes a big difference

Ferrous sulfate is the most commonly prescribed and least expensive, but it's also the most likely to cause constipation, nausea, and stomach cramps.

Ferrous gluconate is somewhat gentler but still causes digestive issues for many people.

Iron bisglycinate (chelated iron) is the best-tolerated form and absorbs more efficiently, meaning your body gets more from each milligram.

How to maximize iron absorption

Vitamin C significantly enhances iron absorption. Take your prenatal or iron supplement with a vitamin C-rich food like citrus, tomatoes, or bell peppers. Calcium, coffee, and tea can reduce iron absorption, so space them at least an hour away from your iron-containing supplement.

Signs of iron deficiency during pregnancy

Watch for persistent fatigue beyond normal pregnancy tiredness, pale skin, shortness of breath during light activity, dizziness, cold hands and feet, and unusual cravings for non-food items like ice or dirt (a condition called pica). Your provider should check iron levels at your first prenatal visit and again during the second or third trimester.

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A note from WeNatal on iron during pregnancy

WeNatal for Her contains 18 mg of Ferrochel® iron bisglycinate, a chelated form selected for its superior absorption and gentle stomach profile. Many women find they tolerate this form far better than ferrous sulfate, which means they're more likely to take their prenatal consistently. If you have confirmed iron-deficiency anemia, your provider may recommend additional supplemental iron on top of your prenatal.

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References

Adams JB, et al. (2022). Evidence based recommendations for an optimal prenatal supplement for women in the US. Maternal Health, Neonatology and Perinatology, 8:4. DOI: 10.1186/s40748-022-00139-9

Georgieff MK. Iron deficiency in pregnancy. Am J Obstet Gynecol. 2020;223(4):516-524. doi:10.1016/j.ajog.2020.03.006