Pregnancy multivitamins: when to start, how to choose the right formula?
Pregnancy is a unique time when a woman's body accomplishes something extraordinary — but also very demanding.
Every day, it draws on its reserves to nourish the baby's growth, support the formation of new tissues, maintain its energy, and balance its emotions.
This is why many expectant mothers choose to supplement their diet with a multivitamin formula specifically designed for pregnancy.
But you still need to know when to start , which vitamins to prioritize , and how to choose a quality supplement .
🤍 When to start taking a pregnancy multivitamin?
Ideally, even before conception , as soon as the pregnancy project is being considered.
The first few weeks (often before the pregnancy is discovered) are crucial for the formation of the neural tube and the development of the fetus — which is why a sufficient intake of folate (vitamin B9) from the start is essential.
But it's never too late to start: appropriate supplementation provides benefits throughout pregnancy and postpartum, especially if:
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Fatigue becomes significant.
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Appetite is irregular.
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The diet is vegan or vegetarian.
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or if nausea limits the variety of meals.
🌿 Essential nutrients during pregnancy
Each vitamin or mineral has its role — and all are important.
Here are the ones that research recognizes as particularly key for this period:
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Vitamin B9 (folic acid) : contributes to the growth of maternal tissues during pregnancy and to the normal development of the neural tube of the fetus.
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Vitamin B12 : contributes to the normal formation of red blood cells and the normal functioning of the nervous system.
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Iodine : contributes to the normal production of thyroid hormones and to the development of the fetal brain.
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Vitamins C and E : protect cells against oxidative stress, support immunity and promote collagen synthesis.
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Zinc : contributes to fertility and the maintenance of normal hair, nails and skin.
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Selenium : contributes to cell protection and the proper functioning of the immune system.
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Magnesium : contributes to the normal functioning of the nervous system and helps reduce fatigue.
A well-formulated multivitamin does not replace a varied diet, but supplements intake when needs increase — while ensuring safety and appropriate dosage.
🌼 Why continue after childbirth?
Often, the postpartum period is even more demanding than pregnancy.
Between recovery, lack of sleep and possible breastfeeding, the body needs time to regain its balance.
Continuing to take a multivitamin, such as Mama Essentials , for at least 3 to 6 months after giving birth (and beyond if breastfeeding) helps to:
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to support energy and reduce fatigue,
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to rebalance vitamin and mineral reserves
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to support milk production,
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strengthen weakened hair, skin and nails.
It's a simple gesture to ease the transition between pregnancy and motherhood.
🇨🇭 Mama Essentials: a gentle and complete Swiss formula
Developed with Swiss nutrition experts, Mama Essentials was designed to meet the real needs of mothers — during and after pregnancy .
💛 Complete and balanced formula:
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12 essential vitamins and 8 essential minerals, including folates , vitamins B12, C, E , zinc , iodine , magnesium , selenium.
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Safe dosages, adapted to daily needs, without excess.
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Vegan, gelatin-free, no artificial flavors or colors.
🧡 Key benefits:
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Reduces fatigue thanks to vitamins B12, C and magnesium.
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Immune system support (vitamins C, B12, zinc, selenium).
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Growth of maternal tissues (vitamin B9).
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Hair and skin maintenance (zinc, biotin).
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Supports energy and hormonal metabolism.
Every detail of the formulation has been designed for safety, traceability and digestive comfort — with no unpleasant taste, no added sugar.
⚖️ And what about iron in all of this? An important mineral, but one that needs to be managed on a case-by-case basis.
Iron plays an essential role during pregnancy, particularly in blood formation and oxygen transport.
However, each woman has very different needs depending on her diet, initial reserves, and blood tests.
At Pioupiou, we have chosen not to add iron to Mama Essentials , in order to avoid any interaction with zinc , another key mineral for the immune system and skin.
This decision also allows expectant mothers to personalize their iron intake based on medical recommendations, according to their individual assessments.
In case of a proven deficiency, iron should be supplemented in a targeted manner, always under the supervision of your midwife or doctor.
🌸 How to choose the right multivitamin for pregnancy and postpartum?
Given the multitude of supplements available, here are some essential criteria to keep in mind:
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Transparency of dosages : a good product clearly indicates the quantities and reference values (NRV).
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Active forms that are well absorbed .
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Complementarity : avoid products with excessive doses, especially of iron or vitamin A.
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Origin and manufacturing : prefer Swiss or European formulas, which are subject to rigorous controls.
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The absence of unnecessary additives : no gelatin, coloring, artificial flavoring or controversial excipient.
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Postpartum adaptation : favouring a formula that can be continued after birth.
💬 Pioupiou tip: your multivitamin should easily fit into your routine — for example, three capsules at breakfast with a large glass of water and a piece of fresh fruit.
🌿 Key takeaways
During pregnancy, the body's needs change profoundly.
A gentle and complete food supplement like Mama Essentials is not there to “replace” a balanced diet, but to support every mother in this demanding stage — from conception to postpartum.
At Pioupiou, we believe that a well-nourished mom is a calmer mom, full of energy and ready to experience every moment of this beautiful adventure with confidence. 🤍