DHA
DHA, or docosahexaenoic acid, is an omega-3 fatty acid that is essential for the development of your baby's brain, eyes, and nervous system, especially during the third trimester and the first months of life. Your body cannot make enough DHA on its own, so you need to get it from food or supplements. Oily fish such as salmon and sardines are the richest dietary sources, but many pregnant women in Singapore do not eat enough to meet recommendations. Most prenatal vitamins include 200 to 300 mg of DHA, which is the amount supported by international guidelines.
What This Means for You
Understanding DHA is an important part of your pregnancy/postpartum journey. During pregnancy, your care team will use this term regularly. Being familiar with it means you can ask better questions and feel more confident at your antenatal appointments.
Explore our Pregnancy hubGood to Know
If you eat fatty fish two or more times a week, a separate DHA supplement may not be necessary, but discuss this with your obstetrician, as fish choices during pregnancy should also avoid high-mercury varieties like swordfish and shark's fin.
Related Terms
Always consult your healthcare provider for personalised advice.
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