Top 10 Best Postnatal Vitamins

As a new mom, your priority is undeniably your newborn baby. However, you can't afford to ignore your health during the postpartum period. One area that deserves your undivided attention is ensuring that you are well-supplied with the essential nutrients to support your postnatal recovery and overall well-being, as well as that the baby gets the necessary nutrients for optimal growth and development. You can easily achieve this with the best postnatal vitamins.

The top-rated postnatal vitamin is the One A Day Women's Prenatal 1 Supplement. You can conveniently use it before, during, and post-pregnancy, which is economical since you won't need three vitamin supplements. The second-best option on our list is Nature-Made Postnatal Vitamins which provide more vitamins A, C, D, and E, critical for your immune system and overall health. The third-best postnatal vitamin we reviewed is the Pink Stork Total Postnatal Vitamin Supplement with Folate. It helps you maintain a positive mood, balanced energy, and immune health.

What Are Postnatal Vitamins?

Postnatal vitamins are supplements specifically formulated to address the nutritional requirements of new moms during the postpartum period. This phase starts immediately after childbirth and may last several weeks or months, depending on individual recovery and breastfeeding duration.

A woman's body undergoes major physiological changes during pregnancy to support the baby's growth and development. These changes continue after birth as the body adjusts its focus to recovery from childbirth and producing breast milk to nourish the baby.

These postnatal vitamins provide essential nutrients lost during pregnancy and delivery. The nutrients are vital for the mother's health as well as ensuring the newborn baby gets essential vitamins and minerals through breastfeeding.

Now that we know what postnatal vitamins are let's check out the best supplements on the market.

One A Day Women's Prenatal Vitamins is a multipurpose supplement you can use before, during, and post-pregnancy. The supplement has nutrients such as iron, DHA, folic acid, and calcium, promoting my baby's development and overall well-being. I no longer need to worry about juggling multiple pills; rather, I can easily take this supplement postpartum and be confident that I am getting everything I need.

Omega-3 DHA is essential for promoting my baby's brain and eye development. Besides, the prenatal vitamin supplement is gluten-free and free from artificial flavors and sweeteners. As someone cautious about what I put into my body, it gives me peace of mind to know that this product is made without unnecessary additives.

Furthermore, this multivitamin supplement for women comes highly recommended by OBGYNs, which says a lot about its effectiveness and quality. Another significant benefit is that this dairy-free product is ideal for those with lactose-sensitive or dietary restrictions.

Keep in mind that this product is vulnerable to heat or direct sunlight during storage. If it is left exposed, it may melt or be damaged.

Pros

• It's a multipurpose supplement you can use before, during, and post-pregnancy.
• The supplement is gluten-free and free from artificial flavors and sweeteners.
• It is a dairy-free product, making it ideal for those with lactose-sensitive or dietary restrictions.
• It contains essential nutrients such as iron, DHA, folic acid, and calcium, promoting the baby's development and overall well-being.

Cons

• It may melt or be damaged if exposed to heat or direct sunlight.

Nature Made Postnatal Vitamins provide more vitamins A, C, D, and E than regular postnatal supplements. These vitamins are critical for your immune system and overall health, especially at this crucial time. The supplement also contains Omega-3 fatty acids, particularly DHA, essential for my baby's brain and eye development. Knowing that my kids are getting the nutrition they require for healthy growth and development gives me peace of mind as a mother.

With a 60-day supply and only one soft gel daily, it fits seamlessly into a busy mom's schedule. There is no need to be concerned about restocking, multiple pills, or complicated dosing instructions. Besides, this postnatal supplement is made with carefully selected ingredients and adheres to strict production standards. It is gluten-free, ideal for individuals with allergies, and it has no artificial flavors or sweeteners.

However, it is important to note that users should be aware of the product's vulnerability to heat or direct sunlight during storage. The soft gels may melt or be damaged if they are left exposed. Also, if you're taking medication or have a blood clotting issue, we recommend consulting a physician before use.

Pros

• It is gluten-free, making it ideal for individuals with allergies
• It contains DHA, essential for a baby's brain and eye development
• Easy to swallow and blend into your daily routine
• Third-party tested for purity and potency

Cons

• It is not recommended for individuals taking medication or those with a blood clotting issue.

Pink Stork Total Postnatal Vitamin is doctor-formulated and designed to support lactation objectives. It considers the requirements of postpartum women with its combination of 20 vitamins, nutrients, and minerals. It also contains essential components for postpartum recovery, such as DHA, Biotin, folic acid, Iron, and B Vitamins.

You are required to take two capsules that are easy to swallow, helping you maintain a positive mood, balanced energy levels, and immune health. Besides, this vitamin supplement's formulation doesn't include GMOs, gluten, dairy, or soy, making it safe for anyone with dietary restrictions or sensitivities.

The fact that Pink Stork is a woman-owned and woman-run company inspires me. She knows the needs and struggles of new mothers since she is a mother herself. Knowing that I am giving my baby the best while still caring for myself is reassuring.

Pros

• The formulation doesn't include GMOs, gluten, dairy, or soy.
• It comes in easy-to-swallow capsules.
• Effective in promoting a positive mood and balanced energy levels.
• It is a woman-owned product.

Cons

• It was expensive.

The New Chapter's gentle nature on the stomach is one of its unique features. I've been worried about how certain vitamin supplements would affect me as a new mother coping with various changes in my body. However, I never felt discomfort or digestive issues with this postnatal supplement. The added advantage of beneficial probiotics through fermentation is a bonus, promoting a healthy gut alongside vitamins and minerals.

For any new mom, the 3-in-1 complete formula is a time-saver. It combines a multivitamin, multimineral, and multiherbal blend, ensuring you get all the essential nutrients in one easy-to-take tablet. Besides, this dietary supplement emphasizes clean, pure whole-food ingredients. It contains organic superfoods such as oats, turmeric, and kelp, providing a comprehensive approach to nutrition.

Furthermore, this postnatal supplement is a non-GMO project verified and formulated with certified organic vegetables and herbs. As a vegetarian, I'm delighted to learn that this product aligns with my dietary preferences as it's gelatin-free. It is also certified Kosher and gluten-free, making it accessible to many individuals.

Pros

• It comes in an easy-to-take tablet.
• This supplement is certified Kosher and gluten-free.
• It is gentle on the stomach.
• It's an organic product.

Cons

• It's not recommended for breastfeeding mothers

As a new mom, I can confidently say that ACTIF Postnatal Vitamin has exceeded my expectations. This nursing and breastfeeding supplement contains over 25 organic vitamins and herbs to promote my and my baby's health during this critical postpartum period. It comes in capsule form, which makes it easy to swallow and blends into my daily routine.

The postnatal vitamin focuses on the baby's brain development, and as a mom, I want to ensure that my kid has the best start in life. Besides, the product is non-GMO. Knowing that it is made from reliable and high-quality ingredients gives me peace of mind when I nurse my baby.

The inclusion of organic herbs makes this dietary supplement stand out from other supplements on the market. It's also gluten-free, making it ideal for individuals with allergies or dietary restrictions. The guava taste is pleasant, providing a hint of sweetness without artificial additives or flavors.

Furthermore, the 90-count bottle is convenient and ensures that I have plenty to last me through the postnatal period.

Pros

• It's in capsule form, making it easy to swallow and blend into your daily routine.
• It is gluten-free, making it ideal for individuals with allergies.
• Third-party tested for purity and potency.
• The 90-count bottle is convenient and usually lasts a long time.

Cons

• It causes severe side effects for some users

Another supplement from Pink Stork to count on Pink Stork Postpartum Mood Support Vitamin focuses on restoring postpartum emotional balance. Thanks to its potent combination of essential postnatal vitamins and nutrients, it is designed to manage these fluctuations. The inclusion of folic acid, vitamin B6, vitamin B12, and vitamin D is quite beneficial, as these vitamins are essential for hormone balance and immune health.

In addition to vitamins, the supplement contains organic ashwagandha, milk thistle, saffron, chamomile, and an exclusive herbal blend. These antioxidants and herbs regulate hormones, manage stress, promote cognitive function, and induce relaxation. Besides, the supplement is breastfeeding-friendly and free from GMOs, gluten, dairy, and soy.

Nutrients usually pass through breast milk to support my baby's health and development. From red blood cell production and overall growth to brain health and cognitive function, I'm delighted that my baby also benefits from my daily vitamin supplement intake.

Pros

• The supplement is breastfeeding-friendly and free from GMOs, gluten, dairy, and soy.
• Effective in balancing hormones and immune health.
• It's in capsule form, making it easy to swallow and blend into your daily routine.
• It helps with the brain health and cognitive function of your newborn.

Cons

• It was expensive.

Mama's Select Postnatal Plus Multivitamin is also designed specifically for breastfeeding mothers. It helps in my recovery and provides added nourishment for me and the baby. This postnatal vitamin supports my bone health while I breastfeed thanks to the vitamin D and calcium included. Also, the presence of zinc and iron helps boost red blood cell production and immune function during the postpartum period.

This supplement's folate and vitamin B12 concentration plays a significant role in postpartum recovery, strengthening the immune system, and energy and mood support. Besides, the veggie capsules are easily absorbable and gentle on the stomach. With just one capsule a day, I know I am getting the necessary support to help me navigate the emotional requirements of motherhood.

Furthermore, including vitamin E and beta-carotene promotes immune function, vision, hair, nails, and skin, promoting overall well-being. As a bonus, this postnatal multivitamin contains Methyl Folate and Methylated B Vitamins, making it safe for Methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) mothers like myself.

Pros

• The supplement comes in vegan-friendly capsules.
• It is manufactured in a GMP facility.
• It is allergen-friendly.
• It has no artificial flavors or sweeteners.

Cons

• It has a bad smell

MegaFood Baby & Me 2 Postnatal Vitamins focus on essential nutritional requirements during breastfeeding. The supplement contains essential nutrients such as iodine, choline, methylation folate, vitamin B12, and vitamins C and D3. These nutrients are crucial for nutritional recovery, breastfeeding support, and optimal postnatal nutrition. Besides, it contains moringa leaf, which is well known to boost milk production.

This dietary supplement contains 120 tablets in a two-tablet-per-serving format, which is convenient and doesn't require a full stomach for absorption. Knowing that it is non-GMO, vegetarian, and tested for over 125 chemical substances gives me peace of mind. Moreover, it doesn't include nine common allergies, including sesame, milk, eggs, peanuts, tree nuts, soy, wheat, fish, or shellfish. Being gluten-free is a bonus for individuals with allergies or intolerances.

After including MegaFood Baby & Me 2 Postnatal Vitamins into my daily routine, I have noticed a significant change in my mood, energy levels, and overall well-being. Not to mention, my milk supply has also improved substantially. Although the supplement is slightly pricier, its benefits far exceed the cost.

Pros

• It is effective in boosting milk production.
• The supplement is non-GMO and vegan-friendly.
• It is gluten-free, making it ideal for individuals with allergies.
• It supports mood balance and enhances energy levels.

Cons

• It was expensive.

Nordic Naturals Postnatal Vitamins focuses on providing essential omega-3 fatty acids. It provides 456 mg of DHA, essential for promoting my baby's neurological growth. Besides, the 586 mg of EPA in each serving has significantly improved my overall well-being. According to research, EPA can help maintain a healthy metabolism and a positive mood. Since including this supplement in my daily routine, I have seen a noticeable improvement in my mood and overall energy level.

The dietary supplement has superior absorption. The omega-3 fish oil concentrates are in the triglyceride molecular form, the natural form of fish. With this optimized absorption, I can be sure I get the maximum benefit from each soft gel. In addition, the lemon flavor helps to eliminate the unpleasant fishy burps that often accompany other omega-3 supplements.

Nordic Naturals Postnatal Vitamins are made of non-GMO, dairy-free, and gluten-free ingredients with no artificial colors or preservatives. Besides, they make each batch of fish oil using fresh, wild-caught, omega-rich fish. Knowing I am giving my baby the best nutrients through breastfeeding gives me peace of mind.

Pros

• It is made of non-GMO, dairy-free, and gluten-free ingredients.
• It contains no artificial flavors or sweeteners.
• The supplement promotes a healthy metabolism and a positive mood.
• It comes in easy-to-swallow soft gels.

Cons

• It has a fishy smell

Naturelo Postnatal Multivitamin provides a comprehensive approach to postnatal nutrition. It is designed exclusively for breastfeeding, offering the daily requirements for vital vitamins such as A, C, D3, E, K2, and B complex and essential minerals like iodine, selenium, and zinc. Vitamin D3 from lichen, Vitamin C from Acerola cherry, vitamin E from sunflower, and magnesium and calcium from marine algae. Besides, using iodine from kelp and zinc, chelated iron, and selenium ensure excellent bioavailability and gentle absorption, which are essential during the postnatal period.

As a breastfeeding mom, I find this supplement easy to swallow and quick to absorb. The bioactive ingredients, including active B vitamins like B6 P-5-P, methyl folate, and B12 methylcobalamin, make it gentle on the stomach and highly effective. Besides, the formula contains herbs that promote milk production, such as fenugreek, fennel, blessed thistle, alfalfa, and stinging nettle.

Furthermore, the postnatal multivitamin is non-GMO, gluten-free, gelatin-free, soy-free, sugar-free, yeast-free, and dairy-free. As a vegetarian, I'm delighted to know that it is suitable for vegans, too, with no animal by-products in its formulation. Also, the lack of artificial flavor, coloring, or preservatives aligns with my preference for natural vitamins.

Pros

• It is formulated with non-GMO, dairy-free, gelatin-free, soy-free, and gluten-free ingredients.
• The supplement contains no artificial flavors or sweeteners.
• It is easy to swallow and quick to absorb.
• Third-party tested for purity and potency.

Cons

• It was expensive

What Are the Benefits of Postnatal Vitamins?

1. They help restore essential vitamins and minerals such as iron, calcium, folate, vitamin B12, vitamin D, and others used during pregnancy and childbirth.

2. They help support the nutritional requirements of breastfeeding mothers, ensuring that both the mother and baby get essential nutrients.

3. They help the body recover after delivery by providing the essential nutrients for tissue repair and postpartum wellness.

4. Postnatal vitamins help boost energy levels.

5. They often contain calcium and vitamin D, vital for maintaining bone health.

6. Postnatal vitamins help support immune function throughout the postpartum period.

7. Some contain nutrients like vitamin D and B-complex vitamins, vital for mood regulation and emotional well-being.

8. Some potent vitamins include biotin and vitamin E, essential for healthy skin, nails, and hair.

Factors to Consider When Buying the Best Postnatal Vitamins

1. Ingredients and Nutrient Composition

The ingredient and nutrient composition of postpartum vitamins can vary depending on the formulation and brand. So, always read the product label to see the nutritional composition of the postnatal supplement you are considering. Ensure the vitamin supplements are formulated from high-quality ingredients and free of artificial additives.

We recommend looking for postnatal vitamins that include essential nutrients like vitamin B12, vitamin D, folate, iron, calcium, omega-3 fatty acids (DHA), and other nutrients (which we will discuss later) necessary for postpartum recovery and breastfeeding support.

2. Absorption and Bioavailability

Absorption and bioavailability refer to how effectively the nutrients in the postnatal vitamins are absorbed and used by the body. So, choosing vitamin supplements with easily absorbable forms of nutrients is wise to optimize their effectiveness. For instance, a postnatal vitamin with methylcobalamin (a form of vitamin B12) and chelated minerals is often considered more bioavailable than its standard counterparts.

3. Allergens and Sensitivities

When shopping for the best postnatal supplements, consider potential allergens and sensitivities. If you have allergies, ensure the supplements are free from common allergens such as gluten, soy, eggs, dairy, and artificial additives.

4. Third-Party Testing

Ensure the supplement is third-party tested. You can look for information on the product label or the manufacturer's website to see if the postnatal supplement has passed third-party testing. However, note that third-party testing does not guarantee effectiveness or individual results, although it adds credibility to a product.

5. Customer Reviews

Before buying the postnatal vitamins, consider other users' reviews since they have purchased and used the product. Conversely, always consider the bigger picture when evaluating customer reviews and use them as one of the many factors in your decision-making process. The best postnatal vitamin supplements for you will depend on your personal health needs, dietary preferences, and recommendations from your physician.

What Are the Essential Nutrients in Postnatal Vitamins?

The best postnatal vitamins usually contain multiple vitamins, minerals, and nutrients, including:

1. Vitamin A

Vitamin A usually helps build and maintain a healthy immune system, which in turn aids the body in its fight against infections, toxins, and other pathogens. It's also crucial for your eye health. It is directly associated with gastrointestinal problems that might prevent your body from absorbing essential nutrients.

2. Vitamin B6

Usually, there are multiple variants of B vitamins, and all play a crucial role in overall health and well-being. Vitamin B6 is one of them. This vitamin B6 helps produce blood cells, break down fat and carbohydrates, boost the immune system, strengthens the body's nervous system, and has also been proven to help enhance brain health.

3. Vitamin B12

Vitamin B12 is a building block of nerves and is vital for healthy and proper neurodevelopment, keeping the nervous system functioning well. Additionally, vitamin B12 has been proven to help enhance mood and fight depression and anxiety.

Adequate vitamin B12 intake is associated with increased metabolism and vitality, better hair and skin appearance, and healthy cellular regeneration.

4. Vitamin C

This well-known vitamin aids in absorbing other nutrients, including iron and zinc, and contributes to overall health and well-being. Because of its antioxidant nature, vitamin C helps treat inflammation and boost immune system responses.

5. Vitamin D

Vitamin D is vital for several essential body functions, including calcium absorption. Getting adequate vitamin D is vital for good health and nutrition because it helps absorb and use several other essential nutrients.

6. Iron

Iron helps support a strong nervous system, red blood cell count, and cell growth. A person with an iron deficit is said to have anemia.

Anemia can occur in some pregnant women, and it can get worse after birth. That's why iron is essential for all women before and after pregnancy.

7. Calcium

Calcium helps in healthy bones and teeth formation. It is also vital in the planning of many other critical bodily functions. The neurological, circulatory, and muscular systems will not function properly without adequate calcium.

Moreover, it is essential in breast milk production, so breastfeeding women require considerably more calcium.

8. Iodine

Iodine is vital for the proper development and balancing of thyroid hormones. These hormones usually help manage and regulate several physiological processes and functions, including cellular growth, metabolism, and brain development.

9. Omega-3 Fats

DHA is the most essential omega-3 fatty acid for newborn growth. As a breastfeeding mom, you need to consume enough of it so that your breast milk transfers healthy fat to your newborn baby. According to research, infants of moms with higher DHA levels in their breast milk usually have better vision and brain development than those with lower DHA levels.

DHA also helps minimize the risk of postpartum depression by improving the mental health of mothers who aren't lactating and offering mood support.

10. Folate

Consuming folate during pregnancy usually reduces neural tube growth in infants. Nonetheless, it is equally important to maintain the right folate levels throughout the postpartum period, especially if you are breastfeeding.

Pregnant women need 600 micrograms (mcg) of folic acid while breastfeeding and non-breastfeeding postpartum women should take 500 and 400 mcg, respectively.

Folic acid is essential for DNA synthesis, so newborns should consume it through breastmilk or folic acid-fortified formulas.

Frequently Asked Questions on the Best Postnatal Vitamins

1. What are the best vitamins to take after pregnancy?

After pregnancy, new mothers need to focus on supporting their postpartum recovery, replenishing their nutrient stores, and meeting the nutritional needs of both themselves and their babies (if breastfeeding). Although individual needs may vary, a good postnatal vitamin supplement should have different vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients, such as:

• Vitamins B1, B2, A, D, B6, and B12
• Omega-3s
• Iron
• Iodine
• Folate
• Calcium

2. Which multivitamin is best after delivery?

One A Day Women's Prenatal 1 Supplement is the best postnatal multivitamin. You can use it before, during, and post-pregnancy, which is economical since you won't need three vitamin supplements. The multivitamin has nutrients such as iron, DHA, folic acid, and calcium, promoting your baby's development and overall well-being.

3. What is the best postnatal vitamin for non-breastfeeding moms?

Pink Stork Postpartum Mood Support Vitamin is among the best postnatal vitamins for non-breastfeeding moms. It focuses on restoring postpartum emotional balance. Thanks to its potent combination of essential postnatal vitamins and nutrients, it is designed to manage these fluctuations.

4. How long should I take postnatal vitamin Supplements after giving birth?

If you are not breastfeeding, your obstetrician-gynecologist (OB-GYN) may advise you to take prenatal vitamins for at least six months after giving birth. This ensures that you continue to acquire the nutrients you require after a demanding nine months, giving your nutrient stores time to replenish.

5. Is it better to take prenatal or postnatal vitamins after birth?

Breastfeeding women usually have various vitamin needs; thus, taking a postnatal supplement throughout this period is highly recommended to maintain your body while ensuring your breast milk offers all the nutrients your baby needs.