Should you take fish oil during pregnancy?

By: Dr Elie Servan-Schreiber (Gynécologue-obstétricien) — 21/02/2026

Why take fish oil during pregnancy?
How to choose the right omega-3 supplement?
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Why take fish oil during pregnancy?

You may already know that fish is particularly recommended for pregnant women. It's a great source of protein, important nutrients such as vitamin D and iron, as well as essential omega-3 fatty acids, especially from oily fish like mackerel, sardines, or salmon.

These omega-3s are important for the growth and development of the fetus. Studies have even shown that women who consume more fish tend to have smarter children.

Fish oil, available as dietary supplements, is another way to introduce these omega-3s into your diet. Is it as effective as eating fish regularly? It is quite difficult to answer with certainty because few studies have looked into this question for pregnant women.

However, several positive effects of fish oil during pregnancy can be noted, such as the reduction in the risk of premature and very premature birth and the reduction in the risk of low birth weight.

In conclusion, fish oil supplements are beneficial for pregnant women who do not consume fish on a very regular basis.

How to choose the right omega-3 supplement during pregnancy?

Several important criteria will help you make the right choice:

• Make sure it is fresh: to avoid consuming oxidized products, steer clear of batches that have been stored in shops for years. Once opened, keep the fish oil in the refrigerator.
• Choose a product rich in omega-3: be careful, as some products actually contain a significant proportion of other fatty acids.
• Opt for oils produced from small wild fish. During pregnancy, avoid cod oil or cod liver oil, which is more likely to contain heavy metals.
• Make sure of the product quality: fish oils produced in Europe are subject to strict monitoring. If you buy oil produced outside of Europe, make sure it has the IFOS certification.

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