Debate exists about the role of Vitamin E in pregnancy. This vitamin is important for proper muscle and blood function, and appropriate amounts will provide needed health boosts with minimal risk. Ingesting too much vitamin E in pregnancy, however, can create negative effects, such as profuse bleeding and possible birth complications. Any changes in diet or nutrient intake should be discussed with a physician beforehand.

Vitamin E is a nutrient found in foods like dairy products, meat, and many plant foods. The body needs certain amounts of this substance in order to build muscle and help create oxygen-carrying red blood cells. These benefits extend to an unborn child, and research even demonstrates that normal intake of vitamin E in pregnancy can reduce risk factors like asthma. In fact, when taken in recommended amounts, it meets the safety standards of most medical organizations. The United States Food and Drug Administration, for example, gives vitamin E a Category A safety rating during pregnancy, when taken in recommended amounts.

In addition, vitamin E in pregnancy has been linked with other benefits, ranging from miscarriage prevention to surgical scar treatment. Some even claim it promotes healthy birth weights. None of these claims, however, have received scientific validation.

Medical professionals advise that vitamin E ingestion equal roughly 15 milligrams daily. Most, if not all, of this amount can be obtained through regular eating or prenatal vitamins for pregnant women. Therefore, in most cases, any additional supplements, like vitamin E capsules or vitamin E oil, are not needed.

Some research suggests that taking high amounts of vitamin E in pregnancy can cause harm to the mother. Abnormal vitamin E levels may increase the amount and intensity of any blood loss. Excessive bleeding is a particular concern for pregnant women, especially during childbirth. In certain women, high levels of Vitamin E can cause an allergic reaction. Adverse interactions with other prescribed drugs are also possible.

Elevated vitamin E levels can pose risks to the child as well. For example, a few studies suggest a correlation between high vitamin E intake and the risk of stillbirth. Another danger is fetal development of vitamin E dependence. This could cause health complications when the child is born and withdraws from the substance. Since vitamin E can be passed through breast milk, mothers should exercise caution with vitamin E intake even after birth.