Pregnacare original

Pregnacare Original

Pregnacare Original is a daily prenatal supplement for pregnancy, providing vitamins and minerals including folic acid, iron and calcium to help meet the increased nutritional demands of those nine months. It is the core formula in the Pregnacare range, without the omega-3 capsules or higher strength additions of Plus and Max.

How it works

Pregnancy raises the requirement for several specific nutrients well above normal. Folic acid is the critical one in the first trimester, when the neural tube forms. Iron supports the substantial increase in blood volume and helps prevent the anaemia that is common later in pregnancy. Vitamin D supports calcium absorption for the baby's developing bones, and UK guidance recommends it throughout pregnancy. The formula is built around those requirements at the appropriate levels.

How to use it

Take one tablet a day as directed on the pack, with or just after your main meal and with water or a cold drink. Do not chew. Taking it with food rather than on an empty stomach reduces the nausea that iron containing supplements can cause, and if morning sickness is a problem, taking it in the evening instead often helps.

Who it is for

It is for women during pregnancy. Those planning a pregnancy may prefer the Conception formula, and those who are breastfeeding the New Mom formula. Women needing a higher folic acid dose, including those with diabetes, a raised BMI, epilepsy on certain medicines or a previous neural tube defect pregnancy, should speak to a GP or midwife.

Safety and when to get advice

Do not take additional vitamin A supplements, cod liver oil or any multivitamin containing vitamin A alongside, as high vitamin A intake should be avoided in pregnancy. Contact your midwife or maternity unit without delay for bleeding, severe or persistent headache, visual disturbance, sudden swelling of the face, hands or feet, severe abdominal pain, or reduced fetal movements. Our UK pharmacy team can answer questions about this product before you buy.

Common questions

Which Pregnacare should I take?
Original is the core pregnancy formula. Plus adds omega-3 capsules, Max is the high strength version, Conception is for before pregnancy and New Mom for after.

Can I take it with other vitamins?
Not without checking, particularly anything containing vitamin A.

It makes me feel sick. What can I do?
Take it with food, or in the evening instead of the morning.

Always read the information supplied with the pack before use.