7 Best Postnatal Vitamins for New Moms: Boost Recovery, Energy & Baby’s Health

Postnatal care is very important for the postpartum period, when the body recovers from pregnancy. Here, postnatal vitamins are the go-to supplements that help meet the nutritional needs in such demanding times. Whether you are breastfeeding, trying to regain your balance and energy, and healing from delivery, the right supplement can make a huge difference. This blog will list the best postnatal vitamins that will fulfill the nutritional needs for you and your baby. 

What is a Postnatal Vitamin?

Postnatal vitamins are multivitamin supplements designed to address the health needs of new mothers. They are designed specifically for postpartum (the time when the body recovers from pregnancy) and breastfeeding women. Moreover, they are also tailored to increase milk supply while breastfeeding and passing on critical nutrients to their children. In addition, postnatal vitamins aid mothers' recovery after birth by addressing hormone changes and variations in sleep-wake rhythms.

7 Best Postnatal Vitamins for New Moms

Consider these top-rated postnatal supplements to support your and your baby’s health:

1. FullWell Prenatal Multivitamin  

FullWell Prenatal Multivitamin is used as a postnatal supplement to deal with postpartum and breastfeeding. It was created by a dietitian and fertility nutrition experts and is tested for hazardous pollutants, like heavy metals. The capsule meets 55% of choline needs during breastfeeding and gives 4,000 IU of vitamin D in each dose, substantially more than comparable pre- and postnatal supplements on the market. 

Dosage: 8 capsules a day

Pros:

• Rich in choline, zinc, folate, and vitamin D.

• Utilizes chelated minerals for best absorption.

• Third-party tested for accuracy and purity.

Cons:

• Does not contain iron.

• Necessitates a daily dose of 8 capsules.

• Expensive.

2. Perelel Mom Multi Support Pack 

Perelel Mom Multi Support Pack contains four nutrients (DHA, EPA, zinc, and vitamin B12) that promote whole-body health after pregnancy. An omega-3 DHA and EPA supplement promotes your baby's growth and mental health, in addition to zinc and vitamin B12 that cover your nutritional needs. It delivers 22% of the choline and 8% of magnesium needed during nursing.

Dosage: 1 packet per day with meals.

Pros:

• Third-party tested.

• Free from artificial additives.

Cons:

• Low in choline and magnesium

• A little pricey

3. Majka Green Vanilla Nourishing Lactation Protein Powder 

This supplement is a fantastic alternative for new moms, especially breastfeeding moms. It is found that the protein requirements of exclusively breastfeeding women are substantially higher (around 1.7-1.9 g per kg of body weight a day). This product offers 15 grams of protein per serving, as well as choline, vitamin D, zinc, calcium, iron, and a probiotic blend to support the requirements of new mothers.

Dosage: 2 scoops (31.9 grams) a day 

Pros:

• Contains protein, key vitamins, and minerals

• Third-party tested for contaminants 

• Vegan-friendly

• Soy- and gluten-free

• Easy to use

Cons:

• Doesn't contain omega-3s

• Expensive

4. Nature Made Postnatal Multi + DHA

This soft gel contains DHA and EPA, and many important vitamins and minerals to help you and your baby by providing nutritional assistance. It is specifically formulated with folic acid for new mothers and other 19 vital nutrients for breastfeeding mothers and the development of newborns. 

Dosage: 1 Softgel per day

Pros:

• Free from gluten and artificial fillers

• Affordable

• USP-verified

• Gluten-free

Cons:

• Lacks choline

• Strong fishy flavor, according to some users

• Contains less quantity of zinc oxide and magnesium oxide

5. Ritual Postnatal Multivitamin

One of the most doctor-recommended postnatal supplements, packed with many vitamins and minerals. It's the best product for breastfeeding mothers who want a minimalist, but science-backed formula. It helps with calcium absorption, boosts bone health, strengthens the immune system, and increases energy levels.

Dosage: 2 capsules a day

Pros:

• Contains clean ingredients

• Vegan and gluten-free

• No sugars or artificial colors

Cons:

• Unusual pill taste and smell

• Does not contain calcium

6. Theralogix TheraNatal Lactation Complete

The nourishing formula of Theralogix includes 25 vital nutrients, which are recommended by all medical experts. These nutrients support breastfeeding mothers by promoting maternal health and newborn development. This supplement is the first on the market that promises to deliver 6,400 IU of vitamin D3 a day. The best feature is that it also works as an alternative to infant vitamin D drops, delivering 160 mcg of vitamin D3 in breast milk.

Dosage: 2 tablets and 1 softgel a day with food.

Pros:

• High-quality ingredients, verified by IFOS for purity.

• Free from artificial dyes and shellfish allergens.

• Gluten-free and dairy-free.

Cons:

• Not suitable during pregnancy

• Causes an upset stomach or heartburn

• Contains bovine gelatin, which may not be suitable for vegans and vegetarians.

7. MegaFood Baby & Me 2 Postnatal Multi

This is a potent multivitamin designed to support the physical, emotional, and mental well-being of a woman after delivery, especially for breastfeeding mothers. It provides 36% of the choline content to the mothers, which directly helps in the development of the baby's brain and improves cognitive function.

Dosage: 2 tablets a day.

Pros:

• Free from allergens like soy, GMOs, dairy, gluten, herbicides, and pesticides.

• Designed using real food sources

• Gentle on the stomach

Cons:

• Not vegan (as it contains lanolin and GTF chromium derived from animals)

• Large tablets make it hard for users to swallow

• Low iron content, which might not be suitable for women with iron deficiency

Why are Postnatal Vitamins Important?

As a result of pregnancy, the body gets depleted of various nutrients, like iron, folate, vitamin D, fatty acids, selenium, and calcium. Also, proper nutrition is critical for breastfeeding.. 

Know how postnatal vitamins help recover from pregnancy and support breastfeeding:

• Restore lost nutrients during pregnancy and after delivery by delivering a sufficient amount of vitamins and minerals.

• Boost energy levels by fighting off postpartum fatigue with its iron content.

• Helps with mood balance and lowers the chances of postpartum depression by supporting hormonal balance and brain function with its key nutrients like vitamin B and omega-3 fatty acids, such as DHA.

• Improve breast milk quality by delivering vitamins B12 and D, DHA, choline, and folate, which contribute to improving milk quality.

• Support muscle and bone recovery, particularly with vitamin D, iron, and calcium, which are depleted during pregnancy and delivery.

• Promote healthy skin, nails, and hair after pregnancy by providing specific minerals and vitamins such as biotin, selenium, and vitamin C.

• Strengthen immune function for the mother's recovery and the newborn's development by replenishing the depleted nutrients. supporting the immune system to fight off infections and improve overall health. 

Prenatal vs Postnatal Vitamins: Key Differences

While prenatal vitamins are designed to meet the nutritional demands of the mother and the growing baby, postnatal vitamins are used to meet the nutritional needs of mothers after delivery and during breastfeeding. 

Key Nutrients to Check for in Your Postnatal Vitamin Supplements

Here are some vitamins you should have in your supplement to replace those lost after delivery:

How Long to Take Postnatal Vitamins?

It is generally recommended to take postnatal vitamins for at least 6 months or longer if you're lactating. Most women continue using them for 1 year for complete recovery and proper nutrient replenishment. Others might choose to take them as long as they are breastfeeding their babies, particularly if they have some nutritional needs to lactate for a prolonged period.

Seek your gynecologist's guidance to determine the suitable duration based on your circumstances and health needs.

How to Choose the Right Postnatal Vitamins?

Generally, the best postnatal multivitamins should be selected using the following criteria:

• Check for key nutrients: Choose the postnatal vitamins that contain vitamins B12 and D, iron, folate, and calcium.

• Pick clean, high-quality ingredients: Choose organic, third-party tested, or non-GMO formulas.

• Consider your purpose: If you are struggling with fatigue and hair loss, prefer products with biotin, B-complex, and iron, and for breastfeeding support, choose formulas with DHA, iodine, and choline.

• Watch for allergens: If you have allergies or sensitivity issues, check for allergens like soy, dairy, and gluten in your products.

• Choose an easy-to-use form: Choose the supplement that you find easy to use, such as in the form of gummies, capsules, or softgels.

• Customer reviews: Go for the formulas with the best and honest reviews from users, as they have already experienced their effectiveness.

Note: Always consult your gynecologist before planning to take any new supplement.

Side Effects of Postnatal Vitamins

Though well-tolerated, postnatal vitamins can cause some side effects:

• Upset stomach

• Slight cramps

• Nausea

• Constipation

• Digestive issues

• Allergic reactions

Note: If you experience an allergic reaction such as hives, swelling, rash, or difficulty breathing, seek immediate emergency help by calling 911. To alleviate symptoms, take your multivitamin with food and drink a lot of water. Along with this, add modest exercise to your daily routine. If these things do not work, consult your doctor about other options. 

Summing Up

The body's requirements after the delivery change, and the best postnatal vitamins can help effectively in meeting those needs. From increasing breast milk production to supporting the mother’s recovery after childbirth, these supplements can work incredibly. Choose the one based on your health needs, whether you want to recover from delivery, are breastfeeding, or are dealing with hair loss and fatigue. However, always see a doctor before starting the new supplement, especially if you are on some medications or have any underlying issues.

Make your recovery after pregnancy smoother by choosing the best postnatal support.