From planning a pregnancy to getting pregnant, new mums are saddled with daily drug intake. And this is for the overall welfare and protection of their baby. The nutritional needs of mother and child don't just end in pregnancy. It's a continual process. 

Postnatal supplements provide mothers and babies with a nutritional boost. Before choosing a postnatal supplement, it is important to understand your needs.

What are postnatal supplements?

Postpartum and breastfeeding aren't an easy task. Mums are caring for their babies while trying to heal from delivery. It is not mandatory but essential to take postnatal supplements. 

Postnatal supplements are vitamins taken during postpartum. The main difference between prenatal and postnatal is that postnatal supplements contain a higher milligram of nutrients and vitamins beneficial to both mother and child. 

The child absorbs these nutrients through breast milk. The main reason for the high dose is that mums still need a lot of nutrients to replace deficit vitamins caused by hormonal imbalances during pregnancy.

Components of postnatal supplements 

Postnatal supplements are taken for several purposes. However, they all share common vitamins and nutrients, though in different quantities. They include:

• Vitamin D: Sure, pregnant women in Nigeria can get abundant vitamin D from the sun, however, it may not meet their needs. The vitamins absorb calcium which contributes to bone health and bone growth for babies through breastfeeding. Breastfeeding mums should get at least 600 IU of vitamin D in a day. Vitamin D doesn't pass through breast milk. Some experts recommend vitamin D drops or infant formulas with vitamin D for babies and infants. 

• Iron: The body needs iron to produce haemoglobin and transport oxygen to different organs of the body. Iron supports brain development in babies. Hence, it is an essential vitamin for both mother and baby. 

• Choline: It plays an important role in brain development. It helps build up immune responses in both mother and baby. 

• DHA: Docosahexaenoic acid is an omega-3 fatty acid included in prenatal vitamins. It easily passes through breast milk, which aids in brain development in newborns. 

When to take postnatal vitamins 

You should take postnatal vitamins after pregnancy. Discuss this with your doctor for proper guidance. Do not self-medicate with postnatal supplements. Also, take into consideration your health needs.

Postnatal vitamins aren't mandatory but they help provide breastfeeding and new mums with essential nutrients due to the tasking life postpartum. Consult your doctor to choose a suitable postpartum supplement for your health needs. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use iron supplements after delivery?

Iron supplements are a great use for postpartum. 

1. How long should I use postnatal supplements?

This depends on your health priorities and instructions from your doctor.

1. Which postnatal supplements should I use?

There are different types of postnatal supplements. Discuss your options with your doctor. 

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