Do Calcium Needs Increase During Pregnancy

During the first trimester, parathyroid hormone (PTH) levels in women consuming adequate amounts of calcium decrease to low-normal levels and then increase to the higher end of normal in the third trimester, reflecting the increase in calcium transfer from mother to fetus.

Do you need more calcium when pregnant?

Your body actually takes calcium from your own bones or teeth to give it to your little one. So if you want your bones and teeth to stay strong, you need to get extra calcium while your baby’s growing inside you. Everyone needs this essential mineral each day.

Do you lose calcium when pregnant?

If sufficient amounts of calcium are not consumed during pregnancy, the bones – not the teeth – will provide the calcium a growing baby needs. This calcium loss is replenished after breastfeeding is stopped. For bone strength it is important to include calcium rich foods in your diet during pregnancy and breastfeeding.