During pregnancy, your developing baby will need plenty of calcium to grow their own bones. If you do not have enough calcium in your diet, your baby will still obtain the calcium they need, but they will do this by taking calcium stored in their mother's bones. This may lead to you not being able to maintain adequate levels of calcium for your own health. Women most at risk for health problems are those who have their pregnancies close together (within 2 years), women who have twins, triplets or more and/or women who have many children (more than 2 or 3). This is because their bodies continue to need extra calcium and have limited opportunities to 'recover' their calcium stores.
There is also some research that supports the benefits of having adequate calcium intakes during pregnancy to prevent high blood pressure developing and to possibly prevent premature birth of the baby.
The following is a guide to your calcium needs during pregnancy and breastfeeding. To read more about 'servings' of dairy foods, you can go to
Class A. Alternative food sources of calcium are listed on the following page of this section in
How much calcium is in what foods?
Pregnancy and breastfeeding.Pregnant and breastfeeding women should aim and have at least 900 to 1200 milligrams of calcium each day (or 3 to 4 servings of calcium rich foods). Pregnant and breastfeeding women under the age of 20 need at least 1200 milligrams (or 4 servings) because their body is still building bone density for later life.
Twins or more.Women carrying twins need to have at least 1200 to 1500 mgs of calcium per day during pregnancy (or 4 to 5 servings of calcium rich foods). This is also recommended for women who breastfeed twins. Women carrying triplets need about 1500 to 1800 mgs per day (or 5 to 6 servings), eating similar amounts while breastfeeding. Your caregiver may prescribe calcium supplements to help you keep up with the calcium your body needs during this time.