Iron Supplement/Prenatal Vitamins

[reesemac]

My OBGYN told me to stop at Target and pick up an iron supplement. She said any will do, but I'm reading conflicitng reports about what is a safe amount during pregnancy. I picked up 65mg supplement. Has anyone received any guidance on this? How many mg were you directed to take?

Also, I heard you are not supposed to take at the same time as prenatal vitamins. How far apart do you take the two? Thanks!

[KM604]

My doc told me I was slightly anemic and told me to pick up an iron supplement, or he could write a prescription for it.  I started getting crampy from it (because it can make you constipated) so he ok'd me to take it every other day.  For me, some things they say are or aren't ok when pregnant, but when the doc tells me he would like me to take something then I can only assume he knows its ok - since he is an OBGYN.  So I would trust what your doc is telling you :)  Remember the baby takes what it needs first!

[toes33107]

My prenatal vitamin has extra iron in it, which was prescribed by my family doctor.  I have been taking it since the beginning of my pregnancy.  When I got my blood work done, my number for anemia was normal.  Never hurts to confirm with your doctor.

[JoyRenee]

Good luck and anemia can cause bad things to happen so taking the iron is a good thing!

[hkenny]

my doctor suggested taking iron in the 2nd trimester on, her reasoning was b/c after the first trimester the iron in your body can be depleted. She said most women do not get enough iron in our diets. I am taking a liquid form which is suppose to be easier for your body to absorb b/c its plant derived ie its a natural form of iron. I dont take it with my prenatals only b/c it makes my stomach to full. its called Floradix Formula and is in a glass bottle. Hope this helps!

[reesemac]

My test came back in the "normal" range, but at the lower end of normal; thus her suggestion for a supplement. She is anticipates that as the pregnancy progresses, my iron level will decrease and I will be anemic. I'll call her tomorrow and ask about a safe dose. Thanks.

[JoyRenee]

Did your doctor tell you that you're anemic? If so then you will need the extra iron. However, too much iron can be a bad thing, too. I have no clue how much is what you'd need. I'd call them back in the morning or call your pharmacist and ask them about it and about when and how much to take!