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Is Vitamin A supplements (retinol) safe in pregnancy?
Best avoided
Avoid high-dose vitamin A supplements and any multivitamin not labelled for pregnancy.
What the evidence says
Avoid supplements containing vitamin A as retinol above the pregnancy-safe amount, and do not take standard multivitamins unless they are specifically formulated for pregnancy. Pregnancy multivitamins contain safe, controlled levels.
Why this matters
Excess vitamin A as retinol is teratogenic — it can cause birth defects, particularly in the first trimester. Beta-carotene (from vegetables) is not a concern.
Source:NHS guidance on vitamins in pregnancy
Last reviewed:April 2026
Please note — This is general guidance based on NHS advice as of April 2026. It is not medical advice. For advice on your specific pregnancy, please speak to your midwife or GP.
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