Pregnancy, Vitamin D & the Sun | London Mole Removal

Feature in ‘GoodtoKnow’

Expert Advice

Dr Ross Perry was invited to provide expert advice on the issue of vitamin D in pregnancy for website GoodtoKnow.co.uk in its feature:

“Experts explain why vitamin D is important for pregnant women”

The article explains that vitamin D is very important during pregnancy, as research has shown that maintaining healthy levels of vitamin D prior to conceiving means a 15% greater likelihood of successfully carrying the baby to term.

Vitamin D is important for good health and strong bones – and during pregnancy, this is important for baby as well as mum. It is also a factor in muscle, heart, lung and brain functioning and helps fight infection.

Vitamin D Deficiency

Vitamin D deficiency is quite common in the UK with an estimated 1 in 5 Brits affected, more in winter.

Dr Ross Perry says:

“The most common symptoms to look out for include general tiredness, aches and pains and not feeling right. In more severe cases, there can be pain or weakness.”

Vitamin D deficiency is diagnosed via a blood test, which can be arranged via the GP.

Treatments for Vitamin D Deficiency

Is Sunbathing the Solution?

One of the best-known sources of vitamin D is the sun, but sunbathing is not the only remedy for vitamin D deficiency. It can also be obtained in food or supplements.

Dr Perry warned:

“You may be tempted to sit in the sun more, but this is unlikely to resolve a serious vitamin D deficiency, plus exposes you to the risks of sun damage. A GP will normally prescribe high dose vitamin D supplements to redress the levels.”

In terms of maintaining vitamin D, sun exposure can be helpful. Ross explains:

“Sun exposure is the best way to maintain our vitamin D levels. It does not need to be sunburn or a tan but simple exposure of arms and legs 2-3 times a week for 15-20 minutes will suffice.

“Human skin can make large amounts of vitamin D when lots of skin is exposed and the sun is high in the sky. Your body is designed to get the vitamin D it needs by producing it when your bare skin is exposed to sunlight.”

Vitamin D in Pregnancy

Pregnant women should be especially careful not to overexpose the skin to the sun, due to the risk of sun damage and pigmentation problems.
Foods containing vitamin D foods can help to top up vitamin D – choose oily fish (sardines, salmon, mackerel) and eggs. Many fortified foods also contain vitamin D such as certain spreads and breakfast cereals.
If you are taking a pregnancy supplement, it probably contains vitamin D already – check the label.

If in doubt, ask your GP or midwife.

Private Mole Checks & Removal

If in doubt about any skin lesions or blemishes, it is important to get them checked as early as possible.

The London Mole Removal Centre is a private company, offering mole checks and treatment for unwanted moles and other skin lesions (cysts, skin tags, warts, verruca, lipoma etc) at 5 mole removal clinics.

All consultations and treatments are carried out in person by doctors who are specially trained in the latest laser and skin surgery techniques and are highly experienced in the field.

Further advantages of private treatment at the London Mole Removal Centre include: