Women's Multivitamin
The specific nutrients these formulas emphasize, folate and iron, have solid evidence in the right circumstances. The blend as a general daily habit for women who eat adequately has much less behind it.
Evidence last reviewed: August 2026
What the science says
- Folic acid before and in early pregnancy Strong evidence
A Cochrane review of randomized trials found that periconceptional folate supplementation substantially reduces neural tube defects. This is one of the best-established supplement effects in medicine, and applies to anyone who could become pregnant.
- Iron for menstruating women Moderate evidence
A Cochrane review found that intermittent iron supplementation reduces anaemia and raises haemoglobin in menstruating women, with fewer side effects than daily dosing. The benefit is in women who are iron deficient, not across the board.
- General daily use Limited evidence
A large randomized trial of a daily multivitamin in older adults reported a small improvement in cognitive test scores, an isolated finding not yet replicated for other outcomes. Broad health claims for multivitamins in well-nourished people remain unsupported.
Dosage & safety
Scientific references
- Effects and safety of periconceptional oral folate supplementation for preventing birth defects
- Intermittent iron supplementation for reducing anaemia and its associated impairments in adolescent and adult menstruating women
- Effects of cocoa extract and a multivitamin on cognitive function: A randomized clinical trial
Where to buy
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Related in Women's health
- Folic Acid (Vitamin B9) Strong evidence
- Inositol (Myo-Inositol) Moderate evidence
- Strontium Limited evidence
- Soy Isoflavones Moderate evidence
- Ipriflavone Limited evidence
- Evening Primrose Oil Limited evidence