<h1>Vitamins and supplements and over the counter medicines</h1>
<img src="https://admin.mumandbaby.uk/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/1.2.2.jpg" alt="Close up of pregnant woman comparing pill bottle label with information on hand-held notes" width="650" height="406" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-1029" />
It is recommended that all women take folic acid and vitamin D supplements during pregnancy. If you have a darker skin, or always cover your skin you may be at higher risk of Vitamin D deficiency. See the related link below for further information. You can buy these over the counter or alternatively ask your GP for a prescription. Folic acid can be stopped when you are 12 weeks pregnant, whereas vitamin D can be taken throughout pregnancy and whilst breastfeeding.

Other vitamins are unlikely to be needed if you have a healthy and balanced diet.

Some women find that their iron levels drop in pregnancy – you will be offered blood tests to see if you need any iron supplements. If you receive certain benefits you may be entitled to free vitamins from Healthy Start.

Sometimes it is necessary to take medication in pregnancy, although this should always be on the specific advice of your midwife or doctor.

In some circumstances, certain types of medications are recommended for over the counter purchase rather than requiring a prescription.

The types of medications that fall into this category are:

Antacids
Laxatives
Vitamins and minerals
Iron supplements
Analgesia (painkillers)
Moisturisers and steroids
Aspirin
Treatment for haemorrhoids (piles), thrush, cold sores, dandruff etc.

If your healthcare professional recommends that you take such medication you will be advised to see your local pharmacist, who will be able offer further advice and information about the recommended products.

<div data-cat="relatedlinks" class="relatedlinks">

<a href="https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/pregnancy-and-baby/vitamins-minerals-supplements-pregnant/" type="nhs">Vitamins and supplements in pregnancy</a>

<a type="nhs" href="http://www.healthystart.nhs.uk/">Healthy start</a>

<a type="rcog" href="https://www.rcog.org.uk/en/patients/patient-leaflets/healthy-eating-and-vitamin-supplements-in-pregnancy/">Further guidance on vitamins and supplements in pregnancy</a>

<a href="https://www.tommys.org/pregnancy-information/im-pregnant/nutrition-in-pregnancy/vitamin-d-pregnancy" type="tommy's">Vitamin D in pregnancy</a>

</div>

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