February 15th, 2025

Prenatal & Postpartum Nutrition—Simplified by a Midwife

Did you know that 97% of women take a prenatal vitamin, yet 95% are still missing key nutrients? That math doesn’t add up.

When I was pregnant, I lived in Switzerland, where there were mayyybe 3 prenatal vitamins to choose from at the pharmacy. Even that felt overwhelming. I did my research, made a list of must-have ingredients and doses, and still ended up just taking the pharmacist’s recommendation. And after all that? I was probably still one of the 95% of women who were nutrient-depleted.

The truth is, supplements and nutrition can feel confusing—especially with so many opinions floating around online. That’s why I’m excited to share advice from a trusted expert today.

Maria is a registered nurse midwife, perinatal nurse, and mom of two. She’s worked in the NICU and has supported women through pregnancy, birth, and beyond. She wrote an article just for us on the vitamins and nutrients that truly make a difference before and after pregnancy.

Here’s a sneak peek:

“In my busy season of raising two littles and supporting women through their pregnancies and postpartum periods, there are a few Needed products that I lean on daily. Their Cognitive Support supplement contains a unique blend of 9 targeted nootropic and botanical ingredients that support focus and attention, brain health and memory, and alleviates brain fog. This has been a total game-changer in feeling sharp at work.

The other supplement I use often is their Stress Support. It's made of adaptogenic and nervine botanicals traditionally used in Ayurveda, Chinese medicine, and herbalism to nourish and support the central nervous system. It supports mood, energy, hormone balance, and overall well-being. These are both safe for us before and after pregnancy, but not during.

And finally, my kids and I love their Immune Support powder, which contains elderberry, zinc, and pre/postbiotics that help fortify the immune system. It's delicious and easy to make into a drink, popsicles, or even kid-friendly gummies.”

You can explore all of Needed’s products here and enjoy 20% off first-time orders (and up to 40% off subscription plans).

If you want more of Maria (because, honestly, who wouldn’t?), you can find her teaching in all of our Postpartum Courses - she also shares all of her product recommendations for postpartum comfort in our Shop!

Hope this helps make your supplement decisions a little easier!

💛 Erica & Maria

P.S. Can you do me a big favor and add me to your contacts? In Gmail just hover over my email address then click the person icon with the + in the top right corner

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