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How we vet brands and products Medical News Today only shows you brands and products that we stand behind.
Our team thoroughly researches and evaluates the recommendations we make on our site. To establish that the product manufacturers addressed safety and efficacy standards, we: Evaluate ingredients and composition: Do they have the potential to cause harm?Fact-check all health claims: Do they align with the current body of scientific evidence?Assess the brand: Does it operate with integrity and adhere to industry best practices? We do the research so you can find trusted products for your health and wellness. Postnatal supplements may help a person meet their nutritional needs after childbirth and while nursing. They usually contain vitamins and minerals to support postpartum recovery and lactation.
Postnatal vitamins are available in different forms, including capsules, softgels, and powders.
This article outlines some of the best postnatal vitamins, as well as prenatal vitamins, available online. It also discusses the benefits of postnatal vitamins, provides tips on choosing an appropriate supplement, and answers some frequently asked questions regarding postnatal vitamins.
Prenatal vitamins can benefit someone recently given birth, particularly if they are nursing. Below, we include both postnatal and prenatal vitamins.
Please note that the writer of this article has not tried these products. All information presented is purely research-based and correct at the time of publication.
Medical News Today follows a strict product selection and vetting process. Learn more here .
Form: tablet Number of servings: 60 Dosage: 2 tablets EPA and DHA per serving: none Certifications: Non-GMO Project Verified, glyphosate residue free, tested for 125+ pesticides MNT's review
MegaFood states that this postnatal vitamin is suitable after pregnancy and during breastfeeding.
This supplement contains key nutrients from whole foods, including DHA and choline, to support the brain , nervous system , and fetal health.
It also contains organic moringa leaf extract, which MegaFood claims may help support milk production.
This supplement is:
suitable for vegetarians
kosher -friendly
can be taken any time of the day, even on an empty stomach
certified for safety and purity
tested for 125 pesticides and herbicides
Positive customer review state that the tablets are gentle on the stomach and do not cause side effects. However, some customers say the tablets are difficult to swallow due to their size and unpleasant taste.
People can take 2 tablets daily with or without food.
MegaFood offers customers free shipping on orders over $50 and a saving of 15% on subscriptions.
Pros & cons it is a fairly affordable product people can subscribe and save 15% the tablets are quite large some buyers did not like the taste it is a fairly affordable product people can subscribe and save 15% the tablets are quite large some buyers did not like the taste Product details Active ingredient(s) (serving strength): vitamin A (52% DV), vitamin C (83% DV), vitamin D (167% DV), vitamin E (100% DV), vitamin K (100% DV), thiamin (100% DV), riboflavin (100% DV), niacin (94% DV), vitamin B6 (100% DV), folate (83% DV), vitamin B12 (100% DV), biotin (100%), pantothenic acid (100% DV), choline (55% DV), iron (33% DV), iodine (100% DV), zinc (92%), selenium (100% DV), copper (100% DV), manganese (100% DV), chromium (111% DV), molybdenum (90% DV), boron (15 mcg), vitamin K2 (15 mcg), lutein (2 mg), organic moringa lead (500 mg) Returns: free returns within 30 days Shipping: free shipping in the United States (Alaska and Hawaii included) Active ingredient(s) (serving strength): vitamin A (52% DV), vitamin C (83% DV), vitamin D (167% DV), vitamin E (100% DV), vitamin K (100% DV), thiamin (100% DV), riboflavin (100% DV), niacin (94% DV), vitamin B6 (100% DV), folate (83% DV), vitamin B12 (100% DV), biotin (100%), pantothenic acid (100% DV), choline (55% DV), iron (33% DV), iodine (100% DV), zinc (92%), selenium (100% DV), copper (100% DV), manganese (100% DV), chromium (111% DV), molybdenum (90% DV), boron (15 mcg), vitamin K2 (15 mcg), lutein (2 mg), organic moringa lead (500 mg) Returns: free returns within 30 days Shipping: free shipping in the United States (Alaska and Hawaii included)
Price: $39.00 Type: capsule Number of servings: 30 Dosage: Discount: Use code HEALTHLINE for 25% off MNT's review
Ritual states that this postnatal supplement may help people meet changing nutrient demands after childbirth and throughout lactation.
These capsules combine oil and dry ingredients in one capsule and are delayed-release, which may make them easier to digest. They contain mint essence for a fresh taste.
Ritual essential postnatal multivitamins contain:
vitamins A, C, D3, and zinc to help support immune function
choline, and methylated vitamin B12 to support brain health
350 milligrams (mg) of omega-3 DHA to support the fatty acid content of breast milk during lactation
This formulation is:
vegan -friendly
gluten and major allergen free
non-GMO
free from artificial colors, preservatives, and additives
Customer reviews are mostly positive, stating that these multivitamins increased energy and were gentle on the stomach. However, some customers found that the supplements cause bloating and criticized the taste.
Ritual recommends taking these postnatal supplements for 6 months postpartum or throughout lactation. People should take 2 capsules daily with or without food.
Ritual offers customers free shipping and a money-back guarantee.
Read our review of Ritual.
Pros & cons suitable for vegans may be easier to digest than other options the tablets are quite large it is a more expensive option suitable for vegans may be easier to digest than other options the tablets are quite large it is a more expensive option Product details Returns: no returns, but may be eligible for refund Shipping: free shipping Returns: no returns, but may be eligible for refund Shipping: free shipping
Form: softgel Number of servings: 30 Dosage: 2 softgels EPA and DHA per serving: DHA (456 mg) and EPA (586 mg) Certifications: third-party tested for purity and potency, igen non-GMO tested, Friend of the Sea Certified Sustainable MNT's review
Nordic Naturals states that these postnatal softgels have a specific formulation to address postpartum nutritional needs.
These softgels contain vitamin D3, EPA, and DHA omega-3 fatty acids. Nordic Naturals claims that EPA and vitamin D3 may help support mood and wellness, while DHA may support maternal cognition and neurological development in the infant. The product contains a highly concentrated triglyceride formulation of fish oil to promote easy absorption.
These softgels are lemon-flavored and free from:
gluten
dairy
artificial colors
preservatives
GMOs
Reviews are mostly positive, with customers saying these supplements are easy to swallow and have no unpleasant smell or aftertaste. However, some customers found that the supplements were not as effective in helping them manage anxiety as other brands they had tried in the past.
Nordic Naturals recommends taking 2 softgels daily with food.
Learn about the best omega-3 supplements .
Pros & cons it is an affordable product it may help support mood and overall wellness they are unsuitable for vegetarians or vegans it provides well over a person's daily recommended amount of vitamin D3 it is an affordable product it may help support mood and overall wellness they are unsuitable for vegetarians or vegans it provides well over a person's daily recommended amount of vitamin D3 Product details Active ingredient(s) (serving strength): total fat (2% DV), saturated fat (0% DV), vitamin D (167% DV), total omega-3 (1,120 mg), EPA (586 mg), DHA (456 mg) Returns: free returns for Prime members Shipping: free shipping for Prime members Active ingredient(s) (serving strength): total fat (2% DV), saturated fat (0% DV), vitamin D (167% DV), total omega-3 (1,120 mg), EPA (586 mg), DHA (456 mg) Returns: free returns for Prime members Shipping: free shipping for Prime members
Form: softgel Number of servings: 60 Dosage: 1 softgel EPA and DHA per serving: DHA (200 mg) and EPA (60 mg) Certifications: USP verified MNT's review
Nature Made states that these softgels provide many of the same nutrients found in prenatal formulas but contain higher amounts of vitamins A, B, C, D, and E to help the body meet increased energy demands postpartum.
The 260 mg of DHA contained within the softgels may help to support infant brain and eye development.
These softgel supplements also contain:
This formulation is gluten-free and does not contain any artificial flavors.
Nature Made recommends taking 1 softgel daily with food and water.
Pros & cons it may help infant development it is suitable for use during breastfeeding the capsules are quite large many customers complain about an overpowering fish scent and taste it may help infant development it is suitable for use during breastfeeding the capsules are quite large many customers complain about an overpowering fish scent and taste Product details Active ingredient(s) (serving strength): vitamin A (99% DV), vitamin C (100% DV), vitamin D (333% DV), vitamin E (100% DV), vitamin K (100% DV), thiamin (100% DV), riboflavin (100% DV), niacin (94% DV), vitamin B6 (100% DV), folate (139% DV), vitamin B12 (207% DV), biotin (100% DV), pantothenic acid (100% DV), calcium (12% DV), iron (33% DV), iodine (52% DV), magnesium (11% DV), zinc (92% DV), omega-3 (260 mg), DHA (200 mg), EPA (60 mg) Returns: free returns for Prime members Shipping: free shipping for Prime members Active ingredient(s) (serving strength): vitamin A (99% DV), vitamin C (100% DV), vitamin D (333% DV), vitamin E (100% DV), vitamin K (100% DV), thiamin (100% DV), riboflavin (100% DV), niacin (94% DV), vitamin B6 (100% DV), folate (139% DV), vitamin B12 (207% DV), biotin (100% DV), pantothenic acid (100% DV), calcium (12% DV), iron (33% DV), iodine (52% DV), magnesium (11% DV), zinc (92% DV), omega-3 (260 mg), DHA (200 mg), EPA (60 mg) Returns: free returns for Prime members Shipping: free shipping for Prime members
Form: powder Number of servings: 15 Dosage: 2 scoops Certifications: certified vegan, non-GMO certified MNT's review
Majka claims this wholefood-based protein powder may support lactation and provide energy. A 2-scoop serving provides 15 g of protein.
Learn about foods and herbs that may help lactation .
The powder is available in chocolate and green vanilla flavors. It contains:
pea and brown rice protein blend
Learn about the best protein powders for females .
This protein powder is suitable for vegans and free from:
Majka recommends mixing two scoops with milk and blending into a smoothie. Users can drink it at any time of the day.
Customer reviews are mostly positive, claiming this product may increase milk supply and energy. However, other customers claim it did not change or even decreased their milk supply.
Research into the safety and effectiveness of lactation supplements is limited. If a person has concerns about their milk supply or lactation, they should speak to a doctor or lactation consultant.
Learn more about breastfeeding.
Pros & cons may help support lactation and breastfeeding it provides a high amount of protein per serving it is an expensive product some buyers do not like the taste or find it effective may help support lactation and breastfeeding it provides a high amount of protein per serving it is an expensive product some buyers do not like the taste or find it effective Product details Active ingredient(s) (serving strength): total fat (2% DV), saturated fat (2% DV), polyunsaturated fat (1 g), total carb (3% DV), dietary fiber (7% DV), total sugars (3 g), added sugars (0% DV), protein (15 g), vitamin A (462% DV), vitamin C (83% DV), vitamin D (333% DV), vitamin E (311% DV), thiamin (143% DV), riboflavin (125% DV), niacin (167% DV), vitamin B6 (400% DV), folate (100% DV), vitamin B12 (357% DV), biotin (86% DV), pantothenic acid (143% DV), choline (36% DV), calcium (20% DV), iron (85% DV), phosphorus (9% DV), iodine (52% DV), magnesium (14% DV), zinc (85% DV), selenium (84% DV), copper (138% DV), manganese (212% DV), chromium (78% DV), sodium (7% DV), potassium (5% DV), protein blend (organic pea protein, organic rice protein, organic chia seed) (17.8 g), organic green blend (organic spinach leaf, organic broccoli stem and organic tomato fruit, organic carrot root, organic spinach leaf, organic kale leaf) (3.2 g), organic lactation blend (organic flax seed, organic ginger root, organic turmeric root, organic caraway seed, organic clove bud, organic shatavari root, organic sweet potato root) (2.5 g), organic polyphenol blend (organic apple fruit, organic strawberry fruit, organic blueberry fruit, organic raspberry fruit, organic cherry fruit, organic black elder berry, organic cranberry fruit) (1.8 g), digestive enzyme blend (protease, amylase, lipase, cellulase, papain hemicellulase, bromelain) (1 mg), probiotic blend (Lactobacillus acidophilus, Lactobacillus plantarum, Bifidobacterim lactis, Lactobacillus sporonges) (2 billion CFU/g) Returns: free returns for Prime members Shipping: free shipping for Prime members Active ingredient(s) (serving strength): total fat (2% DV), saturated fat (2% DV), polyunsaturated fat (1 g), total carb (3% DV), dietary fiber (7% DV), total sugars (3 g), added sugars (0% DV), protein (15 g), vitamin A (462% DV), vitamin C (83% DV), vitamin D (333% DV), vitamin E (311% DV), thiamin (143% DV), riboflavin (125% DV), niacin (167% DV), vitamin B6 (400% DV), folate (100% DV), vitamin B12 (357% DV), biotin (86% DV), pantothenic acid (143% DV), choline (36% DV), calcium (20% DV), iron (85% DV), phosphorus (9% DV), iodine (52% DV), magnesium (14% DV), zinc (85% DV), selenium (84% DV), copper (138% DV), manganese (212% DV), chromium (78% DV), sodium (7% DV), potassium (5% DV), protein blend (organic pea protein, organic rice protein, organic chia seed) (17.8 g), organic green blend (organic spinach leaf, organic broccoli stem and organic tomato fruit, organic carrot root, organic spinach leaf, organic kale leaf) (3.2 g), organic lactation blend (organic flax seed, organic ginger root, organic turmeric root, organic caraway seed, organic clove bud, organic shatavari root, organic sweet potato root) (2.5 g), organic polyphenol blend (organic apple fruit, organic strawberry fruit, organic blueberry fruit, organic raspberry fruit, organic cherry fruit, organic black elder berry, organic cranberry fruit) (1.8 g), digestive enzyme blend (protease, amylase, lipase, cellulase, papain hemicellulase, bromelain) (1 mg), probiotic blend (Lactobacillus acidophilus, Lactobacillus plantarum, Bifidobacterim lactis, Lactobacillus sporonges) (2 billion CFU/g) Returns: free returns for Prime members Shipping: free shipping for Prime members Form: softgel Number of servings: 90 per container Dose: 1 softgel per day EPA: 35 mg DHA: 200 mg MNT's review
The manufacturer states that these prenatal supplements are suitable to take before, during, and after pregnancy.
Learn about the best prenatal supplements .
One softgel (1 serving) provides 27 mg of iron, which meets 100% of the daily value of iron for pregnant and lactating people.
These supplements contain:
folic acid
iron
calcium
omega-3 DHA
calcium
thiamin
riboflavin
niacin
biotin
iodine
magnesium
copper
zinc
They are free from:
Customer reviews are mostly positive, claiming the supplements boost energy and are good value for money. However, negative reviews mention an unpleasant aftertaste.
Pros & cons it provides 100% of a person's daily recommended iron intake it has a high number of positive reviews online people must be careful not to have too much of certain nutrients outside of taking this supplement some buyers mention an unpleasant aftertaste it provides 100% of a person's daily recommended iron intake it has a high number of positive reviews online people must be careful not to have too much of certain nutrients outside of taking this supplement some buyers mention an unpleasant aftertaste Product details Active ingredient(s): vitamin A 650 mcg (50% DV), vitamin C 85 mg (71% DV), vitamin D 600 IU (100% DV), vitamin E 19 mg (100% DV), thiamin 1.4 mg (100% DV), riboflavin 1.6 mg (100% DV), niacin 18 mg (100% DV), vitamin B6 2 mg (100% DV), folate 1330 mcg (222% DV), vitamin B12 2.8 mcg (100% DV), biotin 35 mcg (100% DV), pantothenic acid 7 mg (100% DV), calcium 150 mg (12% DV), iron 27 mg (100% DV), iodine 150 mcg (52% DV), magnesium 40 mg (10% DV), zinc 13 mg (100% DV), copper 1.3 mg (100% DV), omega-3 fatty acides 235 mg Returns: free returns Shipping: free shipping Active ingredient(s): vitamin A 650 mcg (50% DV), vitamin C 85 mg (71% DV), vitamin D 600 IU (100% DV), vitamin E 19 mg (100% DV), thiamin 1.4 mg (100% DV), riboflavin 1.6 mg (100% DV), niacin 18 mg (100% DV), vitamin B6 2 mg (100% DV), folate 1330 mcg (222% DV), vitamin B12 2.8 mcg (100% DV), biotin 35 mcg (100% DV), pantothenic acid 7 mg (100% DV), calcium 150 mg (12% DV), iron 27 mg (100% DV), iodine 150 mcg (52% DV), magnesium 40 mg (10% DV), zinc 13 mg (100% DV), copper 1.3 mg (100% DV), omega-3 fatty acides 235 mg Returns: free returns Shipping: free shipping
Form: powder Number of servings: 24 Dose: 1 powder packet per day EPA and DHA per serving: none Certifications: third-party tested, non-GMO MNT's review
Root’d states that these lemon-berry-flavored powder packs are suitable for prenatal use.
People can mix 1 sachet with 4–12 ounces of water, juice, or a smoothie. This supplement form may suit people who find it difficult to swallow tablets, capsules, softgels, or chew gummies due to nausea.
This supplement contains probiotics to aid the digestive system and electrolytes to hydrate the body. It provides 25 essential daily vitamins and minerals, including:
selenium
choline
calcium
iron
iodine
folate
This supplement is suitable for vegetarian , keto , and paleo diets and is free from:
This product contains erythritol, which a 2023 study suggests may increase the risk for adverse cardiac events and thrombosis. However, further research is necessary to understand the long-term effects of erythritol.
Customer reviews are mostly positive, stating that the supplements helped with nausea during pregnancy and are tasty. However, some customers say they find the taste unpleasant.
The company offers free shipping.
Pros & cons it may suit people who find swallowing tablets difficult it provides 25 essential daily vitamins and minerals it is a fairly expensive supplement option some research suggests erythritol increases the risk of heart problems and thrombosis it may suit people who find swallowing tablets difficult it provides 25 essential daily vitamins and minerals it is a fairly expensive supplement option some research suggests erythritol increases the risk of heart problems and thrombosis Product details Active ingredient(s) (serving strength): total carb <4 g (<1% DV), total sugars 0 g, vitamin A 1,300 mcg (100% DV), vitamin C 120 mg (100% DV), vitamin D 35 mcg (233% DV), vitamin E 19 mg (100% DV), thiamin 1.4 mg (100% DV), riboflavin 1.6 mg (100% DV), niacin 18 mg (100% DV), vitamin B6 2 mg (100% DV), folate 600 mcg DFE (100% DV), vitamin B12 15 mcg (536% DV), biotin 35 mcg (100% DV), pantothenic acid 7 mg (100% DV), choline 45 mg (8% DV), calcium 78 mg (6% DV), iron 9 mg (33% DV), iodine 290 mcg (100% DV), magnesium 50 mg (13% DV), zinc 2.5 mg (19% DV), selenium 70 mcg (100% DV), copper 0.3 mg (23% DV), manganese 0.5 mg (19% DV), chromium 45 mcg (100% DV), molybdenum 50 mcg (100% DV), sodium 271 mg (13% DV), potassium 138 mg (3% DV), superfood and root blend (organic beet root, organic chlorella, organic kale, organic broccoli, organic barley grass, organic oat grass) 305 mg, Lactobacillus coagulans MTCC 5856 60 million CFU, lutein 700 mcg Returns: free returns for Prime members Shipping: free shipping for Prime members Active ingredient(s) (serving strength): total carb <4 g (<1% DV), total sugars 0 g, vitamin A 1,300 mcg (100% DV), vitamin C 120 mg (100% DV), vitamin D 35 mcg (233% DV), vitamin E 19 mg (100% DV), thiamin 1.4 mg (100% DV), riboflavin 1.6 mg (100% DV), niacin 18 mg (100% DV), vitamin B6 2 mg (100% DV), folate 600 mcg DFE (100% DV), vitamin B12 15 mcg (536% DV), biotin 35 mcg (100% DV), pantothenic acid 7 mg (100% DV), choline 45 mg (8% DV), calcium 78 mg (6% DV), iron 9 mg (33% DV), iodine 290 mcg (100% DV), magnesium 50 mg (13% DV), zinc 2.5 mg (19% DV), selenium 70 mcg (100% DV), copper 0.3 mg (23% DV), manganese 0.5 mg (19% DV), chromium 45 mcg (100% DV), molybdenum 50 mcg (100% DV), sodium 271 mg (13% DV), potassium 138 mg (3% DV), superfood and root blend (organic beet root, organic chlorella, organic kale, organic broccoli, organic barley grass, organic oat grass) 305 mg, Lactobacillus coagulans MTCC 5856 60 million CFU, lutein 700 mcg Returns: free returns for Prime members Shipping: free shipping for Prime members
Form: gummy Number of servings: 30 per container Dose: 4 gummies per day EPA and DHA per serving: EPA and DHA (114 mg) Certifications: NSF certified, Clean Label Project, non-GMO tested MNT's review
These gummies are multi-flavored in lemon, orange, and strawberry banana. They contain natural fruit flavoring.
Smarty Pants states that these gummies are suitable for both prenatal and postpartum periods, supporting the fetal nervous system and brain development.
These supplements contain 18 essential nutrients, including:
These gummies are free from:
milk
egg
nuts
soy
gluten
wheat
artificial colors
artificial flavors
artificial sweeteners
Customer reviews are mostly positive. Customers say the gummies taste good and are easier to take than a supplement in tablet form. However, some customers state the gummies are too sweet and big, while others criticize the smell.
Smarty Pants recommends taking 4 gummies daily.
Pros & cons gummies can be easier to take than tablets and capsules they are free from many major allergens some buyers do not like the scent of the gummies they are unsuitable for vegetarians and vegans gummies can be easier to take than tablets and capsules they are free from many major allergens some buyers do not like the scent of the gummies they are unsuitable for vegetarians and vegans Product details Active ingredient(s) (serving strength): total carb 9 g (3% DV), total sugars 6 g, added sugars 6 g, vitamin A 520 mcg (40% DV), vitamin C 48 mg (40% DV), vitamin D 30 mcg (200% DV), vitamin E 14.3 mg (75% DV), vitamin K 24 mcg (27% DV), thiamin 0.14 mg (10% DV), riboflavin 0.16 mg (10% DV), niacin 18 mg (100% DV), vitamin B6 2 mg (100% DV), folate 500 mcg DFE (100% DV), vitamin B12 4.7 mcg (168% DV), biotin 17.5 mcg (50% DV), iodine 290 mcg (100% DV), zinc 3.9 mg 30% DV), selenium 14 mcg (20% DV), sodium 25 mg (1% DV), fish oil 455 mg, total omega-3 fatty acids 132 mg, EPA and DHA 114 mg, inositol 5 mg, vitamin K2 16 mcg Returns: free returns for Prime members Shipping: free shipping for Prime members Active ingredient(s) (serving strength): total carb 9 g (3% DV), total sugars 6 g, added sugars 6 g, vitamin A 520 mcg (40% DV), vitamin C 48 mg (40% DV), vitamin D 30 mcg (200% DV), vitamin E 14.3 mg (75% DV), vitamin K 24 mcg (27% DV), thiamin 0.14 mg (10% DV), riboflavin 0.16 mg (10% DV), niacin 18 mg (100% DV), vitamin B6 2 mg (100% DV), folate 500 mcg DFE (100% DV), vitamin B12 4.7 mcg (168% DV), biotin 17.5 mcg (50% DV), iodine 290 mcg (100% DV), zinc 3.9 mg 30% DV), selenium 14 mcg (20% DV), sodium 25 mg (1% DV), fish oil 455 mg, total omega-3 fatty acids 132 mg, EPA and DHA 114 mg, inositol 5 mg, vitamin K2 16 mcg Returns: free returns for Prime members Shipping: free shipping for Prime members
Form: tablet Number of servings: 30 Dosage: 2 tablets EPA and DHA per serving: none Certifications: third-party tested, NSF-certified facility MNT's review People who find it difficult to swallow tablets may find a chewable option easier to take. These tablets by Seeking Health contain no sugar, unlike some other chewable supplements.
This may make it a good option for those trying to limit their sugar intake.
This tablet contains zinc, folate, and magnesium. It does not, however, contain choline or omega-3s.
Pros & cons an easier option for those who can't swallow tablets they do not contain sugar, so a good supplement for those limiting their sugar intake gluten-free these tablets do not contain choline or omega-3s compared to other supplements available, this supplement contains less vitamin D an easier option for those who can't swallow tablets they do not contain sugar, so a good supplement for those limiting their sugar intake gluten-free these tablets do not contain choline or omega-3s compared to other supplements available, this supplement contains less vitamin D Product details Active ingredient(s) (serving strength): vitamin A 1500 mcg (115% DV), vitamin C 350 mg (292% DV), vitamin D3 25 mcg (167% DV), vitamin E 67 mg (353% DV), thiamin 4 mg (286% DV), riboflavin 4 mg (250% DV), niacin 25 mg (139% DV), vitamin B6 5 mg (250% DV), folate 1360 mcg DFE (227% DV), vitamin B12 100 mcg (3571% DV), biotin 500 mcg (1429% DV), pantothenic acid 25 mg (357% DV), calcium 100 mg (8% DV), iodine 150 mcg (52% DV), magnesium 100 mg (25% DV), zinc 7 mg (54% DV), selenium 70 mcg (100% DV), copper 0.5 mg (38% DV), manganese 2 mg (77% DV), chromium 120 mcg (267% DV), molybdenum 75 mcg (150% DV), betaine anhydrous 150 mg, milk thistle extract 75 mg, coenzyme Q10 25 mg, lutein 5 mg, zeaxanthin 2.5 mg, boron 1 mg, vitamin K2 80 mcg Returns: returns eligible within 60 days. refund not guaranteed. Shipping: free shipping in the contiguous United States Active ingredient(s) (serving strength): vitamin A 1500 mcg (115% DV), vitamin C 350 mg (292% DV), vitamin D3 25 mcg (167% DV), vitamin E 67 mg (353% DV), thiamin 4 mg (286% DV), riboflavin 4 mg (250% DV), niacin 25 mg (139% DV), vitamin B6 5 mg (250% DV), folate 1360 mcg DFE (227% DV), vitamin B12 100 mcg (3571% DV), biotin 500 mcg (1429% DV), pantothenic acid 25 mg (357% DV), calcium 100 mg (8% DV), iodine 150 mcg (52% DV), magnesium 100 mg (25% DV), zinc 7 mg (54% DV), selenium 70 mcg (100% DV), copper 0.5 mg (38% DV), manganese 2 mg (77% DV), chromium 120 mcg (267% DV), molybdenum 75 mcg (150% DV), betaine anhydrous 150 mg, milk thistle extract 75 mg, coenzyme Q10 25 mg, lutein 5 mg, zeaxanthin 2.5 mg, boron 1 mg, vitamin K2 80 mcg Returns: returns eligible within 60 days. refund not guaranteed. Shipping: free shipping in the contiguous United States The following table compares key points on the postnatal vitamins listed in this article:
People should choose a supplement that contains a variety of vitamins and minerals, including:
omega-3 folate choline iron selenium vitamins A, B1, B2, B6, and B12 iodine People may have different nutrition needs during the postpartum period, and no specific supplement will fit all recommendations. For example, lactating people may need a higher dose of iron, iodine, vitamin D, vitamin B12, choline, and omega-3.
A person should consider supplements from reputable brands with third-party testing and many customer reviews.
A healthcare professional can offer guidance on choosing a postnatal vitamin that suits an individual’s needs.
The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends that people take postnatal vitamins to support recovery postpartum. This is especially important if a person is nursing, as nutrients in breast milk are essential for healthy infant development.
Research from 2021 suggests that people who breastfeed are at a higher risk of developing nutrient deficiencies. The vitamins and minerals in postnatal supplements, such as vitamins A, B1, B2, B6, B12, and D, alongside choline, iodine, and DHA, may aid in producing breast milk.
Although prenatal and postnatal supplements consist of similar ingredients, postnatal supplements usually contain additional amounts of vitamin D to help the body absorb calcium. Additionally, they contain extra B vitamins , which aid in creating new blood cells, maintaining healthy skin, and supporting the nervous system .
Postpartum care is an ongoing process, so people should visit a doctor regularly after childbirth. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) recommends that people who have given birth should visit a healthcare professional within the first 3 weeks postpartum. Regular visits should then follow as needed.
If a person is feeling physically or emotionally unwell or experiencing complications, they should make an appointment with a healthcare professional. This is especially important if the person has a chronic medical condition , such as:
As people’s individual nutritional requirements may differ after childbirth, a healthcare professional can advise if a particular supplement is better suited to them.
The following section includes common questions and answers about postnatal vitamins.
What vitamins should I take during postpartum?
People need additional nutrients after childbirth to help the body recover, so it is important to take a well-rounded supplement that provides various vitamins and minerals. This is even more necessary if the person is nursing.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) notes that choline and iodine are the key vitamins a person needs during lactation:
550 mg of choline per day for lactating individuals and 425 mg per day for those who are not 290 micrograms (mcg) of iodine per day for lactating individuals and 150 mcg for those who are not
Nutrients such as vitamin D, folate, fiber, and vitamin B12 are also important.
People need additional nutrients after childbirth to help the body recover, so it is important to take a well-rounded supplement that provides various vitamins and minerals. This is even more necessary if the person is nursing.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) notes that choline and iodine are the key vitamins a person needs during lactation:
550 mg of choline per day for lactating individuals and 425 mg per day for those who are not 290 micrograms (mcg) of iodine per day for lactating individuals and 150 mcg for those who are not
Nutrients such as vitamin D, folate, fiber, and vitamin B12 are also important.
Are you supposed to take postnatal vitamins? Getting all the essential vitamins and minerals the body needs postpartum is important. However, whether a person needs to take postnatal vitamins will depend on their diet and overall health.
The CDC recommends that people only need a postnatal multivitamin if it is not possible for them to meet the increased nutrient needs during this period from diet alone. People can speak with a doctor to decide whether postnatal vitamins are suitable.
Getting all the essential vitamins and minerals the body needs postpartum is important. However, whether a person needs to take postnatal vitamins will depend on their diet and overall health.
The CDC recommends that people only need a postnatal multivitamin if it is not possible for them to meet the increased nutrient needs during this period from diet alone. People can speak with a doctor to decide whether postnatal vitamins are suitable.
Can you take prenatal vitamins as postnatal vitamins? Prenatal and postnatal vitamins are similar but contain different amounts of certain vitamins and minerals. A person should work with a doctor to decide whether a pre- or postnatal vitamin is suitable for them after childbirth.
Prenatal and postnatal vitamins are similar but contain different amounts of certain vitamins and minerals. A person should work with a doctor to decide whether a pre- or postnatal vitamin is suitable for them after childbirth.
Are prenatal and postnatal vitamins the same?
Pre- and postnatal vitamins will contain different doses of certain nutrients. For instance, postnatal vitamins consist of higher amounts of vitamins such as A, B12, C, D, and K and minerals such as magnesium, choline, iodine, and omega-3. This ensures that the individual and the infant obtain all the necessary nutrients.
Although people may still wish to continue taking the prenatal vitamins consumed during pregnancy, they should check with a healthcare professional to ensure these supplements provide the correct dosage of nutrients, vitamins, and minerals they need.
Learn about the best prenatal supplements .
Pre- and postnatal vitamins will contain different doses of certain nutrients. For instance, postnatal vitamins consist of higher amounts of vitamins such as A, B12, C, D, and K and minerals such as magnesium, choline, iodine, and omega-3. This ensures that the individual and the infant obtain all the necessary nutrients.
Although people may still wish to continue taking the prenatal vitamins consumed during pregnancy, they should check with a healthcare professional to ensure these supplements provide the correct dosage of nutrients, vitamins, and minerals they need.
Learn about the best prenatal supplements .
Postnatal vitamins are available in different forms and may help support postpartum health. They also provide necessary nutrients for the infant through breast milk.
Postnatal supplements usually contain different dosing of nutrients than prenatal supplements and are suitable during lactation.
People can contact a doctor if they have any health concerns postpartum. A healthcare professional can order tests for nutrient deficiencies and advise on necessary supplements.