Vitamin e dosage when planning pregnancy. Vitamin E when planning pregnancy. How to take vitamin E when planning a pregnancy. Vitamin E - food and drugs

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And also about the reasons for its consumption, indications and contraindications for use, dosage regimen and more.

In order for the planned baby to be healthy, future parents should pay attention to a group of vitamin complexes, such as vitamin E or tocopherol (second name). We will tell you more about how to drink it, at what time and for what.

Vitamin E when planning pregnancy: the need for a component

Tocopherol should be consumed by every person, including those who are planning a child, so that the whole body and metabolic processes develop and work properly.

This vitamin is involved in the process of saturating blood vessels with oxygen, supplying the body with the necessary energy.

men

Men need the vitamin as an excellent antioxidant that prevents inflammation, testicular dysfunction and high blood pressure.

It also has an excellent effect on the formation of high-quality spermatozoa, delays aging, normalizes blood circulation, expands and improves physical endurance.

Women

For expectant mothers, tocopherol regulates progesterone in the blood, forms eggs, helps the uterus grow for normal childbearing, heals the ovaries, forms a healthy placenta and stimulates a hormone that helps produce milk in the breast.

In addition, he takes an active part in the restoration of skin cells, for this reason, women with an optimal tocopherol index do not develop stretch marks on the skin and do not lose their elastic skin during the period of bearing a child.

Normal values ​​before conception and pregnancy

Normal indicators of tocopherol before conception and pregnancy are 0.2 - 1.2 μg / ml. The lack of an optimal level of this vitamin weakens the entire body and leads to negative consequences. This is typical for both women and men who want to conceive and give birth to a healthy baby. If such a problem occurs, the doctor prescribes a whole vitamin course and includes the intake of this vitamin. It is required to drink both before conception and throughout pregnancy.

Reasons for deficiency

The cause of tocopherol deficiency is the wrong intake of the vitamin and the wrong lifestyle.

This manifests itself while being near toxic substances that are in the air, in water and products, in cigarette smoke and.

Such toxic compounds can interfere with the intake of vitamin substances into the body, even if a person eats a full breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Its deficiency creates a heavy physical load, as well as the consumption of products plant origin that have been pre-processed. They interfere with the absorption of tocopherol in the body.

Deficiency may appear due to individual allergies, patient pathology, for example, due to pancreatitis, cystic fibrosis, cholestatic pathology, and others.

Vitamin E deficiency can be caused by genetics - a metabolic disorder in the liver.

Symptoms of Vitamin E Excess

Uncontrolled intake of vitamin complexes, including vitamin E, leads to its consequences. Excess can lead to a general deterioration in well-being, chronic fatigue, migraines, diarrhea, vestibular disorders, visual disturbances and decreased attraction to a partner.

What foods contain tocopherol: sources of natural vitamin

Vitamin E is almost never found in animal products. It can be seen in the liver, eggs and milk. Source it all kinds of vegetables, frozen vegetables. A small amount is found in margarine.

You can get a lot of it by eating vegetable oils, nuts, whole grains, seeds, spinach and broccoli. Carrots, oatmeal, cucumbers, potatoes, radishes, green leafy vegetables or onions contain less of the vitamin.

The source of the vitamin are herbs in the form of alfalfa, nettle, dandelion, rose hips, raspberries, flax seeds, as well as nuts in the form of hazelnuts, almonds, sesame, walnuts, pistachios and pine nuts. Many vitamins, even E, are found in fresh berries and fruits, such as raspberries, blueberries, plums, apples and apricots.

When appointed

Tocopherol is prescribed when there is a lack of it in the body, as well as to pregnant women, since with each trimester of pregnancy there is a greater need for vitamins.

Pregnant women are usually prescribed to drink it during the entire bearing of the child and after it when breastfeeding. Vitamin E is especially useful for young girls who dream of maintaining the elasticity of the skin, the strength of the nails and the good condition of the hair.

Increased consumption of tocopherol is required when a person works hard, plays sports, is in old age or lives in a place where he regularly experiences stress and an unfavorable environment.

Indications

Drinking a vitamin course is shown as:

  1. prevention and treatment of beriberi;
  2. complex therapy, if there are hormonal disorders in the female cycle, any negative changes in the joints and ligaments, the entire spine, muscle dystrophy, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis;
  3. convalescence after the expiration of diseases;
  4. restoration of proper and balanced nutrition;
  5. recovery of the body after increased physical exertion or during them.

Contraindications

Vitamin E is not for everyone. Main contraindications:

  • hypersensitivity;
  • cardiosclerosis;
  • myocardial infarction.

Instruction

Pregnant women drink it throughout the first semester several times a day before meals. Based on the individual characteristics of the body, the doctor may prescribe an appointment in the morning and evening hours.

Most women take one tablet per day on an empty stomach (if there are no pathologies). The course of admission is a month, then they take a break, take it and show it to the doctor. He decides to continue taking or not.

In advanced cases and pathologies during pregnancy, tocopherol injections are prescribed. The solution in injections is quickly absorbed by the body, and the woman quickly returns to normal.

The rest of the people drink it depending on the doctor's instructions and tests. Usually it is one or two doses per day after meals.

Possible side effects

Side effects can occur if you take a medication that includes vitamin E incorrectly. A person may experience allergies, diarrhea, chronic fatigue, and muscle pain.

When side effects you should stop taking the drug or change it to another after consulting a doctor.

Daily rate

Optimal for an ordinary adult is a daily dose of E - 20 milligrams, but if we are talking about a pregnant woman, then this dose can reach up to 400 milligrams. Then the doctor prescribes special vitamin complexes or injections.

Release form: tablets, capsules

Vitamin E is produced as tocopherol acetate in capsules (this remedy looks like an oil solution) and tablets (dry form). Doctors prescribe a dry form when there is oil intolerance. It is also sold in pharmacies in the form of injection ampoules. In capsules and tablets, there are from 100 to 500 grams.

Tocopherol is part of Aevit, Aerovit, Aekola, Gendevit, Undevit and other drugs.

Complexes prescribed with vitamin E

Vitamin E is a doctor for men and women who want to have offspring or simply make up for its deficiency, prescribed in combination with selenium, glycerin, magnesium and zinc. These substances help assimilate tocopherol in the body and supplement it.

Selenium helps repel free radicals from fatty acids and oxygenate cells. Magnesium, together with vitamin E, helps to get rid of stress, irritability and decreased performance. Zinc and glycerol play a role in the production of cell DNA and are essential in cell regeneration.

ATC

The main preparations that contain Tocopherol and are popular on the market are Vitrum vitamin E, Doppelgerz vitamin E forte and Super formula of antioxidants.

Vitamin E to prepare the body before pregnancy

When taken before conception, vitamin E will stimulate the pituitary gland and increase hormone production to prolong and enhance the uterus's ability to conceive. It is usually taken in combination with other vitamins to get the maximum benefit for conceiving a healthy baby.

Should I take

Tocopherol should be taken by all pregnant women and those who are planning a pregnancy, if there is a lack of it. Subsequently, this will help maintain pregnancy, reduce the process of intoxication, promote the normal development and growth of the fetus, stimulate the development of the placenta, improve blood oxygen saturation, and help to effectively cope with the fatigue of motherhood.

When should you drink?

They drink vitamin capsules after a doctor's prescription, when there are indications for taking (lack of vitamin E in the body before or during pregnancy, and more). For those who are, it is best to drink six months before conception in combination with other vitamins. This applies to both men and women. During pregnancy and after it is usually continued.

How to take women

Women take tocopherol in the second half of the cycle, as well as when ovulation occurs and before pregnancy. The dosage is adjusted by the doctor immediately after conception has occurred. And, as mentioned above, all appointments are made by a doctor.

What dose is given

Women in an interesting position and nursing mothers take 15-30 milligrams. As a prophylaxis, it is taken as a complex, since there may be an overdose, and it is undesirable. In multivitamin complexes, its content is usually indicated in milligrams.

To get only the benefit of the drug, you need to convert milligrams to IU according to the following scheme: 1 Me \u003d 0.67 mg of tocopherol or 1 mg of tocopherol acetate.

Reception scheme

The scheme for taking vitamin E when planning pregnancy is as follows: it is equivalent to divide the daily dose into several portions and take it twice a day. Reception when planning pregnancy is determined by the doctor, taking into account all indicators. Usually the minimum period is one or two months, but may continue until conception.

From what day of the cycle to drink

The method of consumption and the dose of the vitamin when planning pregnancy is calculated by the doctor and aims to saturate the body with the vitamin, prepare the woman for a long period of childbearing and protect her from various factors. Usually taken from the first day of the cycle.

Can I continue to drink during pregnancy

Is it possible to continue taking vitamins during pregnancy, the doctor decides. In more than 80% of cases, a woman continues to consume them after pregnancy.

In the first weeks, vitamin E is as important as folic acid, as it catalyzes the production of sex hormones and helps a woman bear a healthy baby and subsequently breastfeed him.

Taking a vitamin for conception for men

To drink vitamin E for a man to conceive a healthy and strong baby only after consulting a doctor. It is important to observe the daily dose of tocopherol. When prescribing not only tocopherol in capsules, but also folic acid, which helps to absorb this vitamin in the body.

How long can you drink before conception

Before conception, couples usually take the vitamin for up to two months, and after a break, they repeat the intake again if pregnancy has not occurred. Everything will depend on the results of the analyzes of the future parents and the appointment of a doctor.

Admission rules

When preparing for pregnancy for women during their first pregnancy or those who had no problems with previous gestation, the doctor prescribes a daily intake of 100-200 IU. If there were miscarriages, placental abruption, miscarriage, premature birth or gynecological diseases, then the dose is usually increased to 200-400 IU.

How is the dosage calculated for men

The dosage for men is calculated individually based on all tests and doctor's advice. Usually it is 10 IU per day.

Tocopherol or vitamin E can be taken by women, both before conception and after it. Men are also recommended to drink before conception in order to get the desired healthy baby.

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Vitamin E when planning pregnancy: regimen and dosage

What can be said about the need for vitamin E when planning a pregnancy? Only one thing - when preparing a vitamin, everyone needs it: men and women, but we are talking about its natural forms that enter the body with familiar products nutrition, and not at all about the “yellow capsules” from the pharmacy. The second medical term for vitamin E is tocopherol.

Vitamin E when planning pregnancy: the opinion of doctors

Until today, doctors have no consensus on the need for medication prescriptions of tocopherol in preparation for pregnancy. Doctors of the old "school" still prescribe vitamin E to all couples when planning a pregnancy. The dosage of vitamin E in this case is 10 IU (international units). Other experts believe that if a woman's nutrition is balanced, then an additional intake in the form of a drug can only harm the expectant mother and baby. Which of them is right?

Vitamin characteristic

Vitamin E has not only positive properties. About them a little later.

It has effects that should be alarming:

  • The ability to accumulate in the body. Uncontrolled intake of the drug will necessarily give negative consequences, which are united by the concept of hypervitaminosis.
  • Under the influence of high concentrations of the vitamin, potency in men weakens. Therefore, when planning a pregnancy, men should definitely take vitamin E only according to indications and with caution.
  • Super-high doses of tocopherol during pregnancy can cause birth defects and defects in the developing fetus.

And now let's talk about positive properties vitamin E in preparation for conception.

A sufficient amount of natural forms of tocopherol contained in food (tocotrienols and tocopherols) ensure the reproductive function of women and men. Rather, without them, it simply cannot be performed, since they are responsible for puberty even in childhood.

For conception and pregnancy are important:

  • Optimization of metabolic processes in general.
  • Increasing the overall resistance of the body to bacterial and viral agents.
  • Stimulation of the pituitary gland (an organ that regulates the production of sex hormones).
  • Participation in the synthesis of follicle-stimulating and luteinizing hormones. Thus, it indirectly affects the mechanisms of egg maturation, their release from the follicles.
  • An active role in the formation of placental tissues, ensuring the performance of functions by this temporary organ.
  • Preparing the uterus for successful embryo implantation.
  • Prevention.

If, nevertheless, you decide to drink tocopherol preparations, do not do it yourself. Consult your doctor before taking vitamin E if you are planning a pregnancy.

There are two reasons for this:

  • The first is the selection of the drug and dose. There are forms of vitamin E preparations with other vitamins, for example, with retinol (vitamin A) and multivitamins.

Complex preparations in preparation for pregnancy are not always justified, and the dosage of the incoming components may not suit you. And retinol can be teratogenic to the developing fetus.

In addition, there is another pitfall. The instructions may indicate the number active substance in a unit of weight. But there are drugs in which the amount is determined in terms of another substance. This can cause confusion. The dose of vitamin E when planning pregnancy is an issue that requires the attention of a specialist.

  • The second - the scheme of reception should be individual. Reception schemes are calculated based on the duration of the monthly cycle. At the same time, folic acid preparations are recommended in the first half, and tocopherol preparations in the second. In this way stimulate the ovulatory function of the ovaries. This sequence of taking vitamins is often prescribed for infertility, preparation for.

Therefore, only a doctor should tell you how to drink vitamin E when planning a pregnancy specifically for you.

If you do not have problems conceiving and decide to prepare for pregnancy more naturally, below is a short list of foods high in tocopherol. One more clarification is needed. Vitamin E is absorbed only in the presence of fat. Therefore, greens and vegetables need to be seasoned with vegetable oil, and nuts already contain fat.

  • cereals - buckwheat, wheat, oats, rye;
  • any kind;
  • all kinds of vegetable oils - soybean, sunflower, cottonseed, corn and many others;
  • garden greens - onions, parsley, spinach;
  • carrot;
  • peas and soybeans;
  • bell pepper.

Effective and tasty preparation for you! We hope you do now right choice in the question of how to take vitamin E when planning pregnancy.

Vitamin E is a fat-soluble vitamin composed of four tocopherol molecules and four tocotrienol molecules: alpha, beta, gamma, and delta. It is found in large quantities in vegetable oils, sunflower seeds, wheat germ, fruits and green vegetables. main function is to protect the body from free radicals, which cause damage to body tissues and lead to premature aging.

In the case of pregnancy, vitamin E is involved in the elimination of reproductive system disorders and increases the chances of becoming pregnant with infertility. However, an excess of vitamin in the body, especially in the first weeks of pregnancy, leads to serious side effects, including the risk of developing heart disease in the unborn child.

Biological role

Main functions

Vitamin E is an excellent antioxidant that prevents free radical damage to cells, reducing the risk of cancer and cardiovascular diseases. According to the Office for Control food products, free radicals are formed during contact with sunlight, inhalation of polluted air or cigarette smoke, and also when the body turns food into energy.

The antioxidant properties of vitamin E can help prevent premature aging, improve skin elasticity, and protect against wrinkles. Daily intake of the vitamin helps to heal wounds and scars faster, relieves age spots and protects against cognitive impairment. In addition, vitamin E enhances the action of retinol, protecting the lungs and skin from the effects of polluted air.

The second important function of vitamin E is to strengthen the immune protective properties of the body. According to a published article in the journal "Vitamins and Hormones", the use of the vitamin contributes to the reproduction of cells of the immune system, increasing the body's defense against rotavirus and respiratory viral diseases. That is why taking vitamin E is indicated for the elderly and people suffering from HIV.

According to the American Optometric Association, vitamin E is essential for healthy eyes and good vision. A sufficient amount of vitamin in the body slows down the progression of diseases such as macular degeneration and cataracts. In addition, to protect underdeveloped eyes, vitamin E is indicated for children with low birth weight. The American Optometric Association recommends getting the vitamin you need from food and supplements, under the supervision of a physician.

Taking 400 IU of vitamin E daily can help relieve period pain. A Maryland Medical Center study found that patients who took small doses of vitamin E two days before and three days after their period experienced less pelvic pain than those who took a placebo. It is also noted that severe pain during menstruation can indicate medical conditions, such as uterine fibroids or pelvic inflammatory disease.

Before you start taking vitamin E, consult your doctor!

Impact on pregnancy

Vitamin E helps the female body produce prostaglandins - chemical substances which reduce the production of a hormone called prolactin. Prolactin or lactotropic hormone in large quantities inhibits ovulation and pregnancy, in some cases is a source of infertility. Maintaining a balanced level of prolactin is essential for the female reproductive system.

In a recent study, experts from the University of Oregon (USA) conducted a meta-analysis on the effects of vitamin E on human health. The results indicated that vitamin E deficiency increased the risk of anemia, neurological disorders, muscle weakness, and cardiomyopathy. The influence of vitamin E on the development of the nervous system of the embryo was also noted:

"Eating foods rich in vitamin E is important for children under two years of age, for pregnant and lactating women, and for the elderly," said one of the authors of the study, Dr. Maret Traberu.

In addition, vitamin E plays an important role in the formation and maintenance of the functions of the placenta, according to a study in the journal Advances in Nutrition. A healthy placenta is an important criterion for a normal pregnancy.


In the case of men, vitamin E deficiency can interfere with the normal functioning of the reproductive system, according to the published article "Alpha-tocopherol and male fertility" by Salman Azhar. Vitamin deficiency leads to impaired testicular function and a temporary decrease in sperm motility and formation. Increasing the intake of vitamin E together with selenium helps to restore the functions of the reproductive system and improve sperm quality.

If you are unable to get pregnant for a long time, you should talk to your doctor about increasing your vitamin E intake. You should not take nutritional supplements and synthetic vitamins on your own without his approval. In large amounts, vitamin E can increase the risk of hemorrhagic stroke and prostate cancer in men. During pregnancy, an excess of tocopherol in a woman's body increases the risk of congenital heart defects in the unborn child.

Before you start taking vitamin E when planning a pregnancy, consult your doctor!

In large quantities, vitamin E is found in sunflower, safflower, grape seed and almond vegetable oils (about 5 mg per tablespoon). A slightly smaller amount of vitamin E is found in corn, peanut and olive oil - about 1 mg per tablespoon.

Most seeds and nuts also contain vitamin E. According to the Ministry of Agriculture US 100 g of sunflower seeds contain 35 mg or about 150% of the recommended daily allowance of vitamin E. Raw almonds and hazelnuts are slightly less: 25 and 15 mg, respectively. pistachios, Walnut, pecans and cashews also contain small amounts of vitamin E.


Among berries, vitamin E is found in cherries, strawberries, blueberries, raspberries and blackberries. Blackberries lead the way in this regard - according to the USDA, one cup of blackberries contains 1.68 mg of vitamin E. Cherries have the lowest rating, with only 0.1 mg of the vitamin per cup.

The popular tropical fruits mango and papaya contain 3.02 mg and 2.34 mg of vitamin E. In addition, mango contains the antioxidants lutein and zeaxanthin, which help fight macular degeneration and vision problems.

Healthy whole grain foods are not only rich in dietary fiber, but also contain vitamin E. Brown rice, whole grain bread, granulated bran, cereals and whole grain pasta are great alternatives to many tocopherol supplements.

Table of vitamin E content in food sources (per 100 g):

Vitamin E intake

Daily rate

The recommended daily intake of vitamin E for an adult is 10 mg. However, the U.S. Institute of Medicine annually establishes norms for the intake of minerals and vitamins for each population group:
  • Infants 0-6 months: 4 g
  • Infants 7-12 months: 5 g
  • Children 1 to 3 years old: 6 g
  • Men 4 to 8 years old: 7 g
  • Girls 4 to 8 years old: 7.5 g
  • Children 9 to 13 years old: 11 g
  • Adolescents 14 to 18 years old: 15 g
  • Adults 19 years and older: 15 g
  • Pregnant girls: 15 g

Vitamin E deficiency

Vitamin E deficiency may be due to a lack of the vitamin in the diet or the body's inability to absorb it properly. In any case, the lack of vitamin E negatively affects the general condition of the body, leading to anemia and a decrease in red blood cells, which in turn reduce the production of sex hormones and disrupt the functions of the reproductive system.

Overdose

Vitamin E belongs to the group of fat-soluble vitamins that the body can store in sufficient quantities and not be excreted through the urine, as is the case with water-soluble vitamins. An overdose of vitamin E can cause diarrhea, nausea, abdominal cramps, headaches, weakness, fatigue, rashes, bruising, and blurred vision. If you experience these symptoms, you should stop taking vitamin E and consult a doctor.

An excess of vitamin E when planning pregnancy can cause serious side effects including damage to the reproductive system. High level vitamin reduces blood clotting, increasing the risk of nutrient deficiencies. During pregnancy, an overdose of vitamin E may increase the risk of congenital heart defects in the fetus.

Answers on questions

Question: For how long should I take vitamins when planning a pregnancy?

Answer: "It is very important that vitamins and minerals are present in the body of a woman in the early stages of pregnancy or when it is planned," says Robert Green, an obstetrician-gynecologist at the Institute of Reproductive Medicine in Sacramento. "Neural tube defects develop in the first weeks of pregnancy," says Sadip Kakreya, associate director of neonatal intensive care at California Children's Hospital. "If you notice the first signs of pregnancy, do not wait to go to the doctor for a prescription, it is better to start taking vitamins."

Question: The use of iodine during pregnancy planning as an additional supplement: is it worth it or not?

Answer: Some accept, some don't. “According to recent research, the use of iodine as a dietary supplement is not recommended,” says Sadip Kakreya. “The required amount of iodine of 220 micrograms per day for pregnant women is obtained from iodized salt. Half a teaspoon of iodized salt contains 190 micrograms of iodine.”

Question: How much vitamin E should I take when planning a pregnancy?

Answer: Adult women during planning and during pregnancy are recommended to consume 15 mg of vitamin E daily.

Often, at the time of planning a pregnancy or bearing a baby, a woman, or even both partners, is prescribed additional drugs. Very often, future parents, or only a future mother, are prescribed vitamin E for conception. Is the appointment of this vitamin justified at such an important moment as taking it? the best way and will this synthetic drug harm the unborn baby?

Why is vitamin E given so much attention at the time of preparing a woman for future motherhood?

Tocopherol or vitamin E is considered one of the most important compounds for women's health. natural origin: the name tocopherol in Greek means "bearing offspring." It has been proven that the lack of vitamin E makes it impossible for mammals to reproduce.

What is known about the function of natural tocopherol for the human body? Among its main functions, the following should be noted:

  • protection of cell membranes from destruction by free radicals;
  • increased physical endurance;
  • protection of the body from premature aging;
  • counteracting the appearance of inflammatory diseases;
  • preventing the formation of blood clots;
  • protection of the body from the destruction of red blood cells and oxygen starvation;
  • vasodilating properties and pressure-lowering action;
  • regeneration of cellular tissues;
  • hormone synthesis and maintenance of metabolism;
  • prolongation of the youth of the skin epithelium;
  • maintaining memory and vision at a sufficient level.

It is believed that a decrease in vitamin E causes a deficiency of important hormones that maintain pregnancy and protect the fetus from many congenital pathologies.

What products contain

In theory, a healthy person should meet the needs for tocopherol through the use of products. So, fat-soluble tocopherol is most found in such products:

  • fresh fruits and vegetables;
  • unrefined oils (especially wheat germ, almond, cottonseed, cedar, olive, soybean and corn);
  • wheat germ
  • red fish;
  • seeds and nuts;
  • bran;
  • fresh herbs (especially spinach);
  • liver;
  • egg yolks.

Vitamin E deficiency

However, in reality, many people have a lack of vitamin E. Doctors believe this is a consequence of lifestyle. modern man, irregular meals, the use of refined or frozen, as well as artificial foods. And natural tocopherol in such food contains negligible.

In addition, constant stress, atmospheric pollution, bad habits and the abuse of chemical additives further increase the body's need for tocopherol, thereby causing its deficiency.

That is why doctors often prescribe vitamin E additionally, in the form of pharmaceutical preparations. Traditionally, many gynecologists or reproductologists prescribe tocopherol for pregnant women or whole couples who are about to become parents.

Usually, a lack of tocopherol is signaled by the condition of the skin, nails, hair, reduced immunity, muscle weakness. The most dangerous consequences of the lack of this element are fatty degeneration of the liver and a decrease in the reproductive function of the body.

Also, the lack of this complex natural compound can lead to:

  • impaired coordination of movements and skin sensitivity (especially the feeling of "goosebumps" on the skin and "naughty" arms or legs);
  • decrease mental functions(memory, thinking, hearing, vision);
  • flabbiness and dryness of the skin, the appearance of age spots (if skin aging progresses, and freckles or age spots appear suddenly);

Often a lack of vitamin E is so depressing sexual function partners, leading to infertility.

Vitamin E when planning pregnancy in women

Indeed, an artificial substitute for tocopherol has become popular with many gynecologists even at the stage of pregnancy planning, especially in combination with folic acid. Traditionally, this vitamin combination is considered the best remedy prevention from many pathologies of the mother and the unborn baby. Let's figure out for what purpose tocopherol is prescribed to women in the period of preparation for motherhood?

It is well known that it is during this period that a woman should be in fairly good shape. It is not for nothing that modern reproductive specialists advise every couple to prepare for conception. And this often includes a complete medical examination and the necessary medication.

Why exactly does Vitamin E take the first place in terms of usefulness for a future mother and even a father? This is due to the special role of this compound in the function of the body's readiness for conception and bearing a full-fledged baby.

Many patients of a gynecologist know that with many menstrual dysfunctions (irregularity or delay in menstruation), doctors traditionally prescribe them drugs with vitamin E. This is due to the fact that it is tocopherol that supports the most important functions in the female body associated with conception:

  • workings;
  • full formation of eggs;
  • maturation of the uterine layer and maintenance of the menstrual cycle.

The reputation of vitamin E as an elixir of youth and the key to happy motherhood can lead to its incorrect and excessive use, which is completely unacceptable.

The use of vitamin E for expectant fathers

Perhaps some men will be surprised by the need to take vitamins to conceive an unborn child. However, there is nothing strange in this, because it is the poor health of a man that can prevent him from becoming a father or contribute to the birth of a baby with various abnormalities. Therefore, 3-4 months before the planned pregnancy, expectant fathers are also often prescribed a number of vitamins for:

  • strengthening the protective reactions of the body;
  • full functioning of the reproductive system;
  • reducing the harmful effects of the environment.

The importance of vitamin E for a man can be judged by its irreplaceable properties:

  • protection of cells of the genital organs from damage;
  • maintaining a good potency;
  • ensuring high mobility and survivability of spermatozoa.

It is vitamin E that is able to significantly improve the quality of male sperm and fight such common problems as low sperm motility. Also, men often receive less vitamin E due to their bad habits (alcohol, smoking), which interfere with its full absorption.

Often, the dose of vitamin E for men is 300 mg per day (or 100 mg three times a day). This is more than for women. Future fathers usually take the drug until they reach the goal of conceiving a baby.

Vitamin E intake during pregnancy

In different trimesters of pregnancy female body needs various supporting complexes. Vitamin E is necessary for women in the first trimester, as it contributes to normal course pregnancy and prevention of miscarriage during this period.

Many believe that tocopherol is especially important in the first trimester, because its deficiency can lead to disruption of the full functioning of the placenta.

The consequences of this violation can be a lack of oxygen in the fetus, which can lead to both premature birth and various health disorders of the unborn baby.

Usually, doctors prescribe vitamin E in the first trimester of pregnancy, and at a later date it is canceled or the dose is significantly reduced.

The most important function of vitamin E in a pregnant woman is:

  1. maintaining normal hormonal levels and ovarian function in a pregnant woman;
  2. ensuring the production of prolactin to maintain normal lactation after childbirth;
  3. increase the strength and elasticity of muscle fibers.
  4. improvement of blood microcirculation and stabilization of pressure.
  5. reducing the risk of premature aging or placental abruption;
  6. activation of the blood supply to the umbilical cord;
  7. increase the immune response of the reproductive system to the penetration of infection.

It is believed that a lack of vitamin E in pregnant women can lead to complications in the form of:

  • muscle soreness or cramps;
  • the threat of interruption in the initial period of pregnancy;
  • a sharp deterioration in the condition of the pregnant woman's skin, her hair and nails;
  • increased blood pressure;
  • the appearance of edema;
  • more frequent occurrence of congenital pathologies in the fetus.

And one more piece of advice: since tocopherol is a fat-soluble vitamin, no low-calorie diets can be recommended to women during this period.

How to take vitamin E for conception

Most often, vitamin E is prescribed in the second phase of the menstrual cycle in order to maximize the chances of the egg to gain a foothold in the uterine wall.

Usually, the doctor sets the dose of taking any drug both during this period and after the onset of pregnancy.

Often, during pregnancy planning, gynecologists use a tocopherol regimen for 3 months, 100 mg three times a day. Usually this is how long it takes to restore reproductive function in full.

In this case, special care should be taken by women suffering from any diseases (for example, diabetes or hypertension). In such situations, it may be necessary to reduce the dose of tocopherol.

Also, fertility doctors often prescribe vitamin E for a married couple. In this case, a man is prescribed tocopherol (if he has no health problems and the doctor has not determined another regimen) 100 mg 2-3 times a day.

You should know that the maximum daily dose of tocopherol is 400 mg per day.

If the patient has a persistent lack of vitamin E in the body, then the doctor may prescribe this vitamin in injections in the form of a solution of tocopherol acetate.

How to take vitamin E during pregnancy

Usually, when pregnancy occurs, vitamin E is continued to be taken.

In this special condition, any woman should clarify the need for taking the drug and its regimen with her gynecologist.

Most often, tocopherol is taken during pregnancy, 100 mg three times a day. Often, the doctor considers it sufficient for a woman to take this vitamin at a dose of 100 mg twice a day during pregnancy.

About an excess of vitamin E

An excess of tocopherol is usually difficult to determine. Initially, this vitamin is deposited in the adipose tissue of a woman and does not manifest itself in any way, except for being overweight. Gradually, from adipose tissue, the compound enters the body. With the accumulation of shock doses of a substance in the body, a pregnant woman may experience negative changes such as:

  • disorders of nervous regulation;
  • decrease in the excretory function of the liver and kidneys;
  • tendency to bleed, especially at the end of pregnancy;
  • the appearance of excessive elasticity of muscle tissue, contributing to uterine tone and the onset of premature birth.

Also, do not take tocopherol along with preparations containing iron salts. Between them there must be a gap in reception of at least 8 hours. Otherwise, iron supplements will interfere with the absorption of vitamin E.

Most doctors do not prescribe tocopherol after the end of the 1st trimester of pregnancy. In later periods, it is recommended to satisfy the body's need for vitamins through high-quality nutrition.

Different opinions about vitamin E

Indeed, tocopherol passes in obstetrics and gynecology under the name "vitamin of the reproductive system." Even 40 years ago, he was part of any treatment regimen for gynecological diseases. And information about the antioxidant properties of this vitamin makes it a fashionable and most "promoted" drug in the pharmacy network. However, not all doctors share a similar opinion about tocopherol (for example, a well-known TV presenter and writer, as well as a pediatrician of the highest category, Evgeny Komarovsky and his associates, have a completely different opinion on this matter).

Some modern experts believe that vitamin E is no more important than other vitamins, such as A, C or B. Many doctors are confident that in a healthy person, his need for active substances in most cases is completely replenished with normal nutrition. Indeed, part useful properties for vitamin E has been preserved and confirmed by recent studies. These include:

  1. a decrease in the number of deaths from cardiovascular diseases in women over 45;
  2. reduction in prostate cancer and Bladder in smoking men;
  3. slowing down senile changes in the eye retina in combination with vitamin C, zinc, copper and beta-carotene;
  4. a 10% reduction in the occurrence of chronic destructive pathologies (emphysema, bronchiectasis, chronic bronchitis) in women over 45 years of age.

Possible negative consequences

However, regarding the use of tocopherol for pregnant women, many experts were disappointed by the studies. It turned out that this “miracle vitamin” is not only not a panacea, but can also have unpleasant consequences when taken in large doses during pregnancy. These "troubles" include evidence that vitamin E can contribute to:

  1. a 9-fold increase in the number of health disorders in newborns;
  2. the birth of babies with low weight;
  3. an increase in the number of malformations of the cardiovascular system in newborns.
  4. doubling the number of stillborn children;
  5. the absence of any positive effect on the number of miscarriages during pregnancy;
  6. not only do not contribute to a decrease, but also lead to an increased risk of the number of pregnancy complications (eclampsia, preeclampsia) and aggravation of their manifestations.

Given all these data, many modern "advanced" doctors consider it most acceptable to compensate for the lack of vitamin E through healthy foods. This is especially true for pregnant women and those who plan to become pregnant.

Doctors do not yet have a consensus on safe doses of synthetic vitamin E. They are usually selected individually. However, in any case, the dose of this drug should not exceed 400 mg. The danger of abuse of this vitamin may contribute to bleeding or other processes of bleeding disorders.

In any case, when planning pregnancy and its onset, the main goal of a woman is to bear and give birth to a full-fledged child, as well as to maintain her own health. Of course, in any case, self-administration of vitamin E is unacceptable. It has been proven that an excess of this compound in the body is even more dangerous than its deficiency. Therefore, it is important to consult a doctor to obtain the correct information about the need to take an artificial substitute for this natural compound. In any case, it is important to make the main emphasis of the future mother on enriching her body with useful and high-quality products, and not synthetic drugs. Health to you and your kids!

Preparing a woman for such an important event as conceiving and bearing a child must necessarily include.

This is necessary to strengthen the body, which will have to work in the increased load mode for the next 9 months.

One of the most important vitamins responsible for successful conception is vitamin E.

Vitamin E (tocopherol) has another name - "female vitamin". He renders positive influence on the condition of the skin, increasing its firmness and elasticity. Its antioxidant properties are also well known. Taking vitamin E can improve blood circulation and strengthen the immune system.

A lack of tocopherol can be suspected with a deterioration in the condition of the skin and nails, the appearance of muscle weakness.

Invisible to the eye, but no less dangerous consequences of a lack of vitamin E are fatty degeneration of the liver and a violation of the reproductive function of the body.

The need for vitamin E during pregnancy planning

If a woman does not prepare for pregnancy in advance, then usually she finds out about her "interesting position" for a period of 4-5 weeks or later.

It may take several more weeks before she registers for pregnancy, undergoes an examination and receives the necessary appointments.

And during this period, which is one of the most important, the child already needs useful substances for the full development and correct laying of organs. Therefore, the early intake of vitamins, in particular, tocopherol, is necessary for the proper development of the fetus from the first days of life.

This will facilitate conception and increase the likelihood of a successful pregnancy.

For women

Vitamin E, taken by a woman when planning a pregnancy, has a positive effect on the body in several ways:

  • affects - a hormone vital for the normal development of pregnancy;
  • eliminates ovarian dysfunction;
  • reduces the risk of developing infectious and inflammatory diseases of the genital organs;
  • increases endurance;
  • reduces the possibility of developing leg cramps during pregnancy;
  • positively affects the condition of the muscles of the uterus;
  • reduces miscarriage in the early stages.

After pregnancy, the value of vitamin E does not decrease. It is involved in the laying of the placenta, reduces the possibility of stretch marks and tissue rupture during childbirth, and affects successful lactation.

For men

Taking vitamin E by a man during pregnancy planning can improve the quality of sperm.

Spermatozoa will carry good genetic material without damage and mutations, become more mobile, stop responding to adverse external factors.

All this will increase the likelihood of successful fertilization and pregnancy can occur from the first attempt.

How to use

You can start taking any vitamins only with the approval of a doctor, because their excess is no less harmful than a lack. Each person's need for vitamin E is individual and is determined based on the results of the tests.

  • women - 10 IU per day;
  • men - 10-30 IU per day.

Women with a burdened history (miscarriages, abortions, antenatal fetal death) are prescribed an increased dose of vitamin up to 30 IU.

There are a number of restrictions on taking tocopherol, in particular, it is prescribed with caution and with jumps in blood pressure.

Should be revised down. Otherwise, the heart may not form properly in the fetus.

In the second half of pregnancy, an overdose of vitamin E can provoke development (preeclampsia).

If a couple does not want to take vitamin pills or is unable to get checked out by a doctor, their vitamin E intake can be increased by including certain foods in their daily diet. In large quantities, it is found in unrefined oils, cereals, nuts, soy, greens, avocados, eggs.

Tocopherol is a fat-soluble vitamin, which means that for its full absorption, fat must be present in the dishes.

Duration of taking tocopherol

Women are advised to take vitamin E for 3 months before conception. Usually this period is enough to normalize reproductive function.

Tocopherol is taken in the second half of the menstrual cycle.

This allows you to increase the likelihood of fertilization of the egg and its successful attachment to the uterine wall.

Men need to start taking vitamin E 3-4 months before the intended conception. This time will be enough for the maturation of renewed, viable spermatozoa.

Taking vitamin E does not cancel other components of proper planning - a full and varied diet, giving up bad habits, dosed physical activity. Only an integrated approach and the implementation of the doctor's recommendations will allow the couple to soon become happy parents.