Excessive vitamin C consumption during pregnancy can pose several risks and side effects, especially when intake exceeds the recommended upper limit (generally 2,000 mg per day).
- Increased risk of preterm birth:Â Some studies suggest high doses of vitamin C supplements may increase the likelihood of preterm labor and delivery.
- Premature rupture of membranes (PROM):Â Excessive vitamin C, particularly combined with vitamin E, has been linked to a higher risk of PROM, which can lead to complications in pregnancy.
- Gastrointestinal issues:Â High doses may cause abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, heartburn, and esophageal inflammation.
- Oxidative stress and lipid peroxidation:Â When taken with high doses of iron, excessive vitamin C may increase oxidative stress, potentially harmful to both mother and fetus.
- Kidney stones and gout:Â Very high intake is associated with increased risk of kidney stones and gout due to excess oxalate production.
- Potential for vitamin C deficiency symptoms upon abrupt cessation:Â Sudden stopping after high-dose supplementation can cause rebound deficiency symptoms.
- Other rare side effects:Â Fatigue, insomnia, skin irritation, hot flashes, gut blockage, urinary and digestive tract disturbances.
- Pregnant women should aim to meet vitamin C needs through a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables rather than high-dose supplements unless prescribed.
- Supplementation should be carefully managed by a healthcare provider to minimize risks and optimize benefits.
- Avoid exceeding the tolerable upper intake level of 2,000 mg of vitamin C daily during pregnancy.
In summary, while vitamin C is vital for pregnancy health, excessive intake from supplements can lead to significant adverse effects and should be avoided unless medically supervised. For medical advice, you can book an online or physical appointment with Dr. Sofia Manzoor by just clicking the “schedule an appointment” button.
If you’re facing pregnancy concerns like nausea, back pain, dizziness, cramps, spotting, or worries about travelling, getting timely guidance is important. A skilled gynecologist can assess pregnancy safety, manage complications, provide ultrasound evaluations, and guide you on safe travel. You can consult Dr. Sofia Manzoor a leading gynecologist with 16 years of experience. She’s known for handling infertility cases, high-risk cases, travel-related concerns, and overall women’s health with expertise and care.
