Pregnancy is often a thrilling journey filled with unique experiences and valuable insights, particularly regarding nutrition and supplement intake. If you find yourself feeling inundated by the vast amount of information available, rest assured that you are not alone in this experience. It is common to encounter a plethora of conflicting data on health and wellness platforms, which can be quite perplexing. Moreover, the voices of friends, family, colleagues, or even acquaintances often add to the confusion, as they may feel compelled to share their personal views on what is deemed safe or unsafe during pregnancy. Such external opinions can understandably make you cautious about introducing new foods and supplements into your diet, including probiotics.

This article aims to clarify the most recent research regarding the safety of using probiotics during pregnancy, empowering you to make well-informed choices as you select the supplements that best suit your needs during this special time.

Are Probiotics Safe for Use During Pregnancy?

Probiotics are beneficial live microorganisms that can be found in various foods and beverages such as yogurt, kefir, tempeh, and kombucha. They are also available in supplement form for those who prefer an alternative. When consumed in appropriate amounts, probiotics may provide several health advantages, including enhanced digestive function and a lowered risk of cardiovascular diseases.

Research indicates that the majority of probiotic strains, including Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium, are deemed safe for long-term consumption. Nonetheless, some scientists are investigating the potential risks associated with excessive use of probiotic supplements, which may include the transfer of genes that confer resistance to infectious pathogens, antibiotic resistance, and other negative health impacts.

Fortunately, numerous studies have confirmed that the intake of probiotic supplements during pregnancy is safe and does not correlate with any adverse outcomes. A comprehensive review conducted in 2018, which analyzed 49 different studies, concluded that there is no link between probiotic supplement intake during pregnancy and an increased risk of preterm birth or other negative pregnancy outcomes for either mothers or infants. In addition, various other studies indicate that probiotics are generally well-tolerated by those who are pregnant or nursing.

A 2020 review focusing on the safety of probiotics for pregnant women and newborns identified adverse effects in only 3 out of the 21 studies included. Importantly, all adverse effects reported were linked to probiotic use in infants, not during pregnancy. Two of these instances involved bloodstream infections in low birth weight infants, while the third case pertained to probiotic use in a low birth weight infant following a surgical procedure. Ultimately, the review concluded that probiotics seem to be safe for pregnant women and full-term newborns, although it emphasized the necessity for further research—particularly in vulnerable groups such as low birth weight infants. If you are pregnant and contemplating the use of probiotics, it is advisable to discuss this with your healthcare provider to ensure they are a suitable option for you and your baby.

While probiotic supplements are generally regarded as safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding, researchers concur that larger and higher-quality studies are essential to validate these findings.

Advantages of Consuming Probiotics During Pregnancy

If you’ve arrived at this article, it’s likely because you’ve heard about the potential health benefits of taking probiotics during pregnancy. Research supports this notion, indicating that these supplements may enhance various aspects of maternal health, lower the risk of pregnancy complications, and provide advantages for newborns.

Potential to Enhance Gut Health

Maintaining a healthy gut microbiome is vital at all times, including during pregnancy. Emerging evidence suggests that the intake of probiotics during this period could positively influence gut bacteria composition and enhance digestive health. For instance, a study conducted in 2020 involving 49 pregnant women with obesity demonstrated that those who consumed a multi-strain probiotic supplement from around 17 weeks of gestation until delivery exhibited a notable increase in gut bacteria diversity compared to the placebo group.

Specifically, the probiotic group showed greater levels of beneficial bacteria such as lactobacilli, bifidobacteria, and S. salivarius. A high level of bacterial diversity is indicative of a healthy gut, while a low diversity has been associated with adverse health issues, including metabolic disorders. However, further investigation in this area is warranted.

Potential to Lower the Risk of Preterm Delivery and Other Complications

Excitingly, the consumption of probiotic supplements may provide protection against preterm delivery and other pregnancy-related complications. A review from 2020, encompassing 18 randomized controlled trials, revealed that women who took probiotics had a significantly longer gestation period in comparison to those who received placebo treatments. This review also highlighted a significantly reduced risk of mortality and necrotizing fasciitis, a rare yet serious infection that may arise during pregnancy, in women taking probiotics.

Potential to Decrease Eczema Risk in Infants

If you are expecting, incorporating probiotics into your regimen may help lower the risk of eczema—a condition marked by red, itchy skin—for both you and your baby. A 2020 review linked probiotic supplementation with a significantly diminished risk of eczema during pregnancy.

Furthermore, a 2019 review analyzing 28 studies found that using probiotics both during and after pregnancy was associated with a notably lower risk of eczema in infants and young children. In alignment with this, the World Allergy Organization advocates for the use of probiotics in expectant mothers and infants with a family history of allergic conditions. Collectively, these insights imply that taking probiotic supplements could aid in the prevention of eczema in pregnant individuals and their babies. Nevertheless, the quality of existing evidence is considered low, necessitating further research to validate these potential advantages.

Potential to Alleviate Depression and Anxiety

You may be looking into probiotic supplements due to claims that they can help alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety during or after pregnancy. Unfortunately, while some strains of probiotics are thought to have such effects, not all studies are in agreement.

A 2017 study involving 380 women indicated that those who took a probiotic named Lactobacillus rhamnosus HN001 (HN001) from weeks 14–16 of pregnancy until six months postpartum reported significantly lower levels of depression and anxiety compared to the placebo group. However, it’s worth noting that this study was funded by the supplement manufacturer, which may have impacted the outcomes.

Interestingly, a 2021 investigation involving 40 pregnant women found that taking a multi-species probiotic supplement from weeks 26–30 of pregnancy until delivery had no discernible effect on depression or anxiety symptoms. Additionally, a 2020 study indicated that treatment with Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG and Bifidobacterium lactis BB12 did not lead to any improvements in mental health outcomes among pregnant participants. In summary, current evidence supporting the idea that probiotics can reduce depression and anxiety during or after pregnancy is limited.

Experiencing feelings of depression or anxiety during or after pregnancy is not uncommon, and it’s crucial to remember that you don’t have to navigate this challenging period alone. Seek assistance from a trusted healthcare provider to receive the appropriate support and care as soon as possible.

Potential to Enhance Maternal Metabolic Health

If you’re pregnant, it’s essential to maintain your health to minimize the risk of complications and the likelihood of developing certain health issues post-delivery. Fortunately, probiotic supplements may assist in lowering blood sugar and insulin levels during pregnancy, which could improve overall health and decrease complications.

A 2018 review comprising 12 randomized controlled trials revealed that the use of probiotics during pregnancy effectively reduced blood sugar and insulin levels. Additionally, a 2017 review of four randomized controlled trials involving 288 women with gestational diabetes (characterized by elevated blood sugar levels during pregnancy) found that probiotics significantly lowered insulin resistance, although they did not directly reduce blood sugar levels. The researchers suggested that this may help women with gestational diabetes minimize the need for blood sugar-lowering medications later in their pregnancy.

Numerous other studies have similarly indicated that probiotic supplements might positively influence insulin and blood sugar levels when taken during this crucial period. Furthermore, a 2017 study proposed that treatment with HN001 during pregnancy could help reduce the risk of developing gestational diabetes, particularly in women over 35 years of age and those with a prior history of the condition. While these findings are encouraging, it is important to remember that research in this domain is ongoing.

If you’re contemplating the use of probiotic supplements to manage blood sugar or insulin levels, it’s essential to consult with your healthcare provider first to determine if this approach is suitable for you. Overall, the consumption of probiotic supplements during pregnancy has been linked to various benefits, including a decreased risk of pregnancy complications and lowered blood sugar and insulin levels.

Should You Consider Probiotics During Pregnancy?

Now that you’re aware that probiotics are generally regarded as safe during pregnancy and may offer various health advantages, you might be curious about whether you should incorporate them into your routine. The answer is nuanced; it largely depends on individual circumstances. For some expectant mothers, these supplements can indeed be beneficial. If you have been using probiotics prior to conception to alleviate symptoms related to gastrointestinal disorders such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or Crohn's disease, it may be appropriate to continue their use.

Additionally, probiotics might be useful if you are dealing with elevated blood sugar levels and insulin resistance or if there is a familial tendency towards allergic conditions. However, while certain studies indicate that probiotics may help mitigate specific pregnancy-related complications, the evidence is not robust enough to recommend them universally for all pregnant individuals.

Not Essential for Most Individuals

Although some individuals could benefit from these supplements during pregnancy, they are not essential for the majority. Other supplements, such as high-quality prenatal vitamins and omega-3 fatty acid capsules, play a more crucial role in supporting both maternal and fetal well-being. Ultimately, the most vital aspect is to maintain a nutrient-rich, balanced diet alongside a healthy lifestyle.

For instance, ensure you consume ample protein-dense foods like eggs, chicken, fish, lentils, a variety of vegetables and fruits, as well as healthy fats from sources like full-fat dairy, avocados, nuts, and seeds to nourish your body effectively. Moreover, while most do not require a probiotic supplement during pregnancy, you will likely benefit from including foods that are naturally rich in probiotics, such as kimchi, kefir, miso, and sauerkraut in your meals. Furthermore, incorporating prebiotic-rich foods — fibers that nourish beneficial gut bacteria — like artichokes, garlic, onions, and asparagus can enhance your digestive health. The fiber in these foods can also aid in preventing constipation.

If you are pregnant or planning to conceive and have inquiries about which supplements to consider, we strongly recommend consulting with a qualified healthcare provider, such as an OB-GYN or a registered dietitian specializing in prenatal nutrition. They can offer tailored advice and assist you in understanding which supplements align with your dietary needs, lifestyle, and overall health. If probiotics are suggested, they can guide you on which specific strains could be most beneficial.

Lastly, when selecting supplements, including probiotics, ensure you opt for products from reputable brands to guarantee safety. Numerous brands are validated by third-party organizations such as USP, NSF International, or Underwriters Laboratory. While probiotics may offer certain advantages during pregnancy, they are not always a necessity. Often, a well-rounded diet and a healthy lifestyle suffice, but be sure to address any concerns with your healthcare provider.

The Bottom Line

Probiotics have gained immense popularity as dietary supplements and are considered safe for individuals who are pregnant or breastfeeding. Evidence suggests that incorporating probiotics during pregnancy may offer several advantages, including a decreased likelihood of pregnancy complications, a lower risk of eczema in infants, and enhanced metabolic health indicators for expectant mothers. Nonetheless, it is essential to recognize that probiotics may not be suitable or necessary for every pregnant woman. Therefore, it is advisable to consult your healthcare provider for personalized guidance if you are considering incorporating probiotic supplements into your prenatal regimen.

One Important Note: If you're looking to boost your intake of probiotics through food rather than pills, be sure to explore this article that details various foods rich in natural probiotics.