From the moment you find out you’re carrying a new life in your belly, maternal instincts kick in – you become fiercely protective, not only about your own wellbeing, but that of your unborn child too. You want to give your child the best start in life, and that includes eating the right food, taking supplements that will help you cope, and your baby grow and develop.

It seems only natural that you would question the safety of taking certain supplements during pregnancy – even supposedly ‘harmless’ ones like Collagen supplements. Here at Nutriest, we strive to uncover the simple truth about things, so join us as we examine the safety of collagen during pregnancy.

During pregnancy, your nutrition is the top priority. Try Nutriest’s beef collagen peptide powder or marine collagen peptide powder. It is 100% natural and free of additives – you only get what you need – pure collagen.

Quick Overview

Overall, collagen can be considered safe in pregnancy if it is derived from a reputable source and used as directed. Definitive safety through clinical trials (especially in early pregnancy) has not been proven; therefore, women interested in taking collagen should prioritize high-quality supplements, free of contaminants.

Table of Contents

Why do women take collagen supplementation during pregnancy?

Pregnant woman holding ultrasound photo, symbolising can you take collagen while pregnant

Collagen is the most abundant protein in the human body, making up 25-35% of the total protein content. Bovine collagen in particular provides eight essential amino acids and is a great source of glycine and proline. The building of healthy RNA and DNA strands is largely due to glycine and is critical for providing the foundation of functional body cells.

Furthermore, bovine collagen consists mainly of type i and type iii collagen protein, which play a major role in healthy connective tissue, joints, bones, and skin. These essential characteristics of collagen provide the following benefits during pregnancy:

  • The provision of essential building blocks that are used in the synthesis of DNA components. [1]
  • Skin is more elastic and hydrated in the presence of adequate collagen. This can help manage the appearance of stretch marks. [2]
  • Collagen has been effective in managing joint pain, and therefore may be helpful for pregnancy-related joint stiffness. [3]
  • Bovine collagen contains glutamine, which reduces inflammation in the digestive system and, therefore, is helpful for women with stomach discomfort during pregnancy. [4]
  • Increased collagen production has a role in aiding restful sleep due to glycine, the body’s smallest anti-inflammatory micronutrient. Less inflammation equals a calmer brain, which equals restful sleep. [5]

The benefits for both mothers and their babies are compelling, but what about their safety? Let’s examine the facts next.

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Collagen Safety: Human Studies

Group of pregnant women holding bellies, highlighting can you take collagen while pregnant

One open-label clinical study (Baginski et al., 2016) evaluated a bovine collagen supplement taken in the third trimester and early postpartum. In this study, women consumed a collagen peptide drink twice daily during late pregnancy (30g of collagen a day). They continued this regimen 10 weeks post-delivery. Compared with the control group, the supplemented group showed improvements in several outcomes:

  • Scores on a physical health and quality of life questionnaire (WHOQOL), as well as wound-healing indices, were significantly better.
  • Serum total protein levels normalized 100% in the collagen group, compared to 72% in the control group.
  • No serious adverse events were reported by either group.
  • Mild side effects such as gastrointestinal discomfort were infrequent in both groups.

The researchers concluded that collagen during pregnancy was ‘safe and well tolerated’ when taken during the last trimester and breastfeeding.

A more recent dermatology review (Bianchi et al., 2022) notes that the FDA classifies gelatin (from which collagen peptides are prepared) as ‘safe’ and that the World Health Organization and European Commission for Health and Consumer Protection consider hydrolyzed collagen safe. While the focus of this review was not specifically on pregnant women, it is noteworthy that these health organizations view collagen favourably.

Collagen Safety: Regulatory and Official Guidance

No European health agency has issued a specific prohibition on collagen supplementation during pregnancy. For example, the EFSA (European Food Safety Authority) has evaluated BSE (mad cow disease) risk from gelatin/collagen, and concluded that properly processed bovine collagen is ‘almost certainly’ free of BSE infectivity. [6]

Regarding general nutrition, EFSA establishes Dietary Reference Values for protein during pregnancy but does not set an upper intake limit (UIL) for protein; therefore, intakes up to twice the recommended level are considered safe. However, pregnant women are advised to adhere to the recommended dose. [7]

How you can make collagen part of your journey

Pregnant woman cradling belly at home, reflecting can you take collagen while pregnant

Pregnancy is often described as a miracle – and so it is – but it’s also full of questions, discomfort, and changes you weren’t prepared for. Every trimester brings with it new joys and challenges, and understanding where collagen may fit in can make your choices easier.

Collagen in the first trimester

The early months are usually all about adjusting to the changes you’re going through. Morning sickness, fatigue, and food aversions can make even the healthiest woman feel off-balance.

At this stage, it’s advisable to get enough folic acid, iron, vitamin D, and a range of nutrients from a balanced diet. If the thought of adding something new to your diet makes your stomach turn, it’s perfectly fine to add beef or marine collagen peptide powder to your favourite beverage because it’s tasteless.

Collagen in the second trimester

By the time most women reach the second trimester, their appetite typically returns. This is the best time to start thinking about what your body really needs to support your baby’s rapid growth.

Your belly is growing, the skin stretches, and more strain is being placed on your joints. Supplementing with collagen during this trimester can help manage these changes.

When collagen levels are optimal, the increase in amino acids can support your joint and skin health. At the same time, glutamine acts as an anti-inflammatory in the digestive system, helping to settle stomach complaints. Always clear the use of collagen during pregnancy with your healthcare provider, but if approved, this can be a gentle way to nourish your body.

Collagen during the third trimester

As your due date comes closer, your body is working harder than ever. Many women feel heavier, experience swelling, and deal with aching hips or lower back pain.

Protein needs are at their highest during this time, and this is where taking collagen supplements can help you finish strong. Start thinking about your body’s health post-partum at this stage – collagen intake can help with wound healing and bone health.

Postpartum collagen use

After your baby arrives, it’s easy to forget your own needs in a whirlwind of feedings, sleepless nights, and new routines. But your body is still healing. Collagen may support healing after C-section or vaginal birth since its amino acids are helpful for skin and connective tissue repair. Think of collagen as a small tool that helps you refill your own cup while you care for your baby.

Practical tips for safe collagen supplementation

Pregnant woman drinking water on bed, symbolising can you take collagen while pregnant

If you do decide to include collagen, the best guide is to keep it simple and safe. You can do this as follows:

  • You are unique, and so is your pregnancy. Check with your OB or midwife before adding additional supplements.
  • Choose pure, high-quality hydrolyzed collagen peptides in a powder form. It should be 100% natural, free of additives, and easily added to foods or beverages you enjoy.
  • Stick to the recommended dose. More is not better when it comes to pregnancy.
  • Pair with Vitamin C and Vitamin D foods that help your body use collagen more effectively.
  • Listen to your body. If you experience any discomfort or new symptoms after taking collagen, adjust the dosage or stop.

Conclusion

Pregnancy is already full of ‘Can I eat this? Can I drink that?’ questions. It’s normal to feel overwhelmed. The truth is, collagen isn’t a magic fix, but it can be a gentle support if your doctor agrees. Think of it as one more way to nourish yourself while you’re growing a new life. Be kind to yourself, trust your body, and remember: food first, supplements second.

Collagen plays an important role in skin health, gut health, and peaceful sleep, which can be highly beneficial in managing hormonal and bodily changes during pregnancy. Nutriest offers only the highest quality beef or marine collagen peptides for mums-to-be. Try our 100% natural products now.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I take collagen safely while pregnant?

Yes, in late pregnancy, high-quality collagen is safe, provided you stick to the recommended dose. No official European guidelines mandate the avoidance of collagen while pregnant; however, pregnant women are advised to increase their nutrient intake from food first and consult their medical practitioner before taking new supplements.

2. What types of collagen are safe to take during pregnancy?

During a healthy pregnancy, you can safely take hydrolyzed bovine collagen or marine collagen, which may support tissue repair and post-partum wound healing. Theoretically, collagen can increase skin elasticity and joint comfort, which may be helpful during the late stages of pregnancy.

3. Can I take collagen and folic acid together during pregnancy?

Yes, it is generally accepted that collagen and folic acid can be taken together during a healthy pregnancy. However, you should consult a pharmacist or medical practitioner to ensure you’re not exceeding the daily recommended dose of key nutrients.

4. Is Vitamin C essential for collagen production?

Yes, a healthy Vitamin C level is essential for collagen production in the body. It acts as a cofactor for key enzymes that stabilize collagen fibers. However, it has nothing to do with how effectively collagen is absorbed in the body. For safety, pregnant women should concentrate on maintaining healthy Vitamin C levels through food intake.

References:

  1. Multifunctional DNA Collagen Biomaterials
  2. A Collagen Supplement Improves Skin Hydration, Elasticity, Roughness, and Density
  3. Oral administration of collagen alleviates joint pain: Study
  4. The role of glutamine in supporting gut health
  5. Glycine: The smallest anti-inflammatory micronutrient
  6. BSE risk posed by collagen derived from bones
  7. Dietary reference values for protein