During pregnancy, you may notice changes in your hair. Some women experience rapid hair growth while others may experience hair loss as either may happen due to hormonal changes. In either case, hair changes during pregnancy are often temporary, according to the American Pregnancy Association. Biotin helps your hair grow; a biotin deficiency can result in hair loss. Most prenatal vitamins generally do not include biotin, according to MedlinePlus.
History
Physicians typically prescribe prenatal vitamins for expectant women because their bodies need more of certain nutrients such as calcium, folic acid and iron. Prenatal vitamins also contain a blend of other vitamins such as vitamin C to help keep your immune system strong and healthy.
Function
As your baby forms during pregnancy, your body requires extra calcium for the baby's bones to grow properly. If you do not consume enough calcium during pregnancy, your baby can deplete your calcium supply, which can weaken your bones and teeth. The extra iron is required to ensure your body makes enough red blood cells for you and the baby since your blood volume increases during pregnancy. Folic acid, also known as folate, helps prevent certain brain and spinal risks to your baby such as spina bifida.
Biotin
While most prenatal vitamins do not contain biotin, it may be safe for some women to take biotin orally under doctor supervision, according to the American Pregnancy Association. Biotin deficiency is rare in the United States so it's not a standard practice for doctors to recommend that pregnant women take biotin supplements, according to MedlinePlus.
Hair Loss
Since hair loss can occur during pregnancy, biotin supplements may be taken under doctor supervision to help increase your hair growth, according to the American Pregnancy Association. Biotin along with other vitamins and minerals such as vitamin E and zinc can help increase the rate at which your hair grows.
Considerations
Pregnant women can safely consume up to 30mcg per day, according to MedlinePlus. Your doctor may approve more or less depending upon your health condition. Biotin can increase blood sugar levels as well as cause nausea, vomiting and blurred vision, according to the American Cancer Society. Consuming too much biotin may also cause liver and heart problems.
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