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May, 2024
June, 2024
Learn why you should start your probiotics journey with Bio-K+
Our scientifically proven formulas are designed to support your unique health journey
Probiotics are among the most commonly used dietary supplements during pregnancy. This educational resource covers current research. Always consult a healthcare provider before starting any supplement during pregnancy.
The Motherisk Team at the Hospital for Sick Children concluded, in Canadian Family Physician, that Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium probiotics do not appear to pose safety concerns for pregnant women (PMC3056676). These strains are rarely absorbed systemically, making it unlikely they reach the fetus. A meta-analysis of 11 studies and 1,505 patients found no effect on Cesarean section rate, birth weight, or gestational age. Always consult a healthcare provider before starting any supplement.
The current evidence on safety relates specifically to Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium strains; findings for other species are limited. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists does not include probiotics in its maternal nutrition guidelines (AJOG MFM, 2024). Effects are considered strain-specific, and dose-specific results for one strain cannot be generalized to all probiotics (PMC8308823). Always consult a healthcare provider before adding any probiotics during pregnancy, whether starting or continuing an existing routine.
Pregnancy involves natural changes in the gut microbiome across trimesters as part of normal physiological adaptation. Many women consume probiotics in food form; yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, and kimchi are natural dietary sources of Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium species. Research confirms that orally taken Lactobacillus probiotics can reach the vaginal environment through the gastrointestinal tract (PMC3056676). Consult a healthcare provider for any specific health concern during pregnancy.
Constipation and digestive discomfort are common during pregnancy due to hormonal changes. A fiber-rich diet and adequate hydration remain the most well-supported approaches for managing digestive comfort. Research on probiotics for constipation during pregnancy is limited, and results vary by strain and individual. A quality daily probiotic supplement can be part of a gut-supportive routine, but is not a treatment for digestive conditions.† Always discuss with a healthcare provider before adding any supplement during pregnancy.
Full strain name: look for the complete genus, species, and alphanumeric designation; "Lactobacillus blend" is insufficient. Potency guarantee: CFU must be guaranteed until the best before or expiry date, not at manufacture. Always discuss the specific product with your healthcare provider before starting during pregnancy.†
In the United States, probiotic supplements are regulated by the FDA as dietary supplements under DSHEA. No probiotic dietary supplement holds an FDA-approved claim for pregnancy or any pregnancy-specific outcome. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists does not include probiotics in its maternal nutrition guidelines. Approved structure-function claims relate to digestive and immune health.† Always discuss any product with your healthcare provider before purchasing.
† These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.
Bio-K+ Extra Care Probiotic Capsules contain 50 billion live and active bacteria, guaranteed until expiry, supporting digestive and immune health.† Original drinkables contain 50 billion, guaranteed until expiry. Women's Health Probiotic Capsules, Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus GR-1™ and Limosilactobacillus reuteri RC-14™, help restore and maintain healthy vaginal flora and reduce yeast and bacteria on vaginal surfaces. No pregnancy-specific claim is made. Consult a healthcare provider before starting any supplement.
A review published in Canadian Family Physician by the Motherisk Team at the Hospital for Sick Children states that Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium probiotics do not appear to pose safety concerns for pregnant women. Systemic absorption is rare in healthy individuals, making it unlikely these bacteria reach the fetus. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting or continuing any supplement during pregnancy.
There is no single best probiotic for all pregnant women. Look for full strain names with alphanumeric designations, a guaranteed CFU count until the expiry date, and a product from a brand with published research. Most safety research in pregnancy has used Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium strains. Always discuss any product with your healthcare provider before starting.†
Research on probiotics specifically for constipation during pregnancy is limited, and results vary by strain and individual. A fiber-rich diet and adequate hydration remain the most well-supported approaches for managing digestive comfort during pregnancy. If digestive discomfort is a concern, discuss options with your healthcare provider before adding any supplement to your routine.
Pasteurized yogurt with live and active bacterial cultures is generally considered safe during pregnancy as part of a balanced diet. It is a natural dietary source of Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium species and can complement a daily probiotic supplement routine. Choose pasteurized products to avoid food safety concerns, and consult your healthcare provider with any questions.
Research indicates that probiotics are unlikely to transfer into breast milk, as confirmed by the Motherisk review published in Canadian Family Physician. Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium probiotics are generally considered well-tolerated during breastfeeding in healthy women. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting or continuing any supplement while breastfeeding.
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