Before pregnancy, during pregnancy and after birth, doctors often recommend supplements such as folic acid, iron and vitamin D. These supplements work best when taken regularly. Folic acid plays an important role in the development of the baby's nervous system, iron in preventing anemia and vitamin D in bone health. But remembering to take a tablet at the same time every day is not easy, especially on days with nausea, tiredness or a new baby.
When and how some supplements are taken also matters. For example, iron supplements may be absorbed less when taken with tea, coffee or dairy; some medicines should be taken on an empty stomach and others after a meal. Saving a usage note next to each medicine makes it easier to remember your doctor's or pharmacist's advice every time. If you take more than one medicine, seeing them all in one list prevents mix-ups.
The reminder only works from the plan you enter; it does not decide which supplement you take or at what dose. Check with your doctor or pharmacist before using any vitamin, herbal product or medicine during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. High doses of some vitamins can be harmful in pregnancy. You can also find out what to do if you miss a dose from the package leaflet or your pharmacist; do not take a double dose on your own.
What you can do
- Add each vitamin or medicine with its name, dose, time and usage note.
- Choose which days of the week you take it.
- Get a notification reminder at the times and days you choose.
- Folic acid, vitamin D and iron come ready to use; tap to turn them on.
- Give each entry an icon color, and edit or delete entries.
- Turn off an entry you are not using without deleting it.
How to use it
- Tap 'Add' and type the name of the medicine or vitamin.
- Enter the dose your doctor recommended, the time to take it and any usage note.
- Choose the days you take it and save.
- Keep notification permission on; you will get a reminder when it is time.
Frequently asked questions
When should I take folic acid?
It is recommended to start folic acid at least one month before pregnancy and take it regularly through the first months of pregnancy. It can be taken at any time of day; what matters is taking it at the same time every day without skipping. To make it easier to remember, you can tie it to something you do daily, like breakfast. Follow your doctor's advice on the dose and duration.
Should iron pills be taken on an empty stomach?
Iron is generally absorbed better on an empty stomach, but because it can cause nausea and stomach pain, some people are advised to take it with food. Tea, coffee, dairy and calcium supplements can reduce absorption, so it is recommended not to take them at the same time as iron. Ask your doctor or pharmacist about the best time for the product you use.
What vitamins should I take during pregnancy?
The supplements most often recommended in pregnancy are folic acid, iron and vitamin D; in some cases iodine, calcium or omega-3 may also be recommended. Which supplements you need depends on your test results, diet and health. Take supplements as recommended by your doctor.
What should I do if I forget to take my medicine?
What to do depends on the medicine. For many vitamins, the advice is to take the missed dose as soon as you remember, or skip it if your next dose is due very soon. Never take a double dose to make up for a missed one. Read the leaflet for your medicine or ask your pharmacist. If you forget often, setting a regular reminder and taking it at the same time every day helps.