Summary: After years of IVF and a lot of ups and downs with my fertility journey, I’ve been relying on Needed’s supplements to support me through this pregnancy. From digestion and immunity to sleep and hydration, the company has been a trusted source for supplements made with the highest-quality nutrients for me and my baby. Plus, the subscription options and bundles make everything more affordable, accessible, and stress-free.

Pros

  • Science-backed formulas: I love that Needed’s supplements are based on the latest clinical research, so I know I’m getting the best nutrients for my body at every stage.
  • Bioavailable ingredients: Their ingredients are designed to support optimal absorption, which means I’m actually getting the full benefit of what I’m taking.
  • Sustainable & ethical sourcing: Needed is a certified B Corp, 1% for the Planet member, and Climate Neutral certified. I love that they focus on sustainable, eco-friendly practices and third-party testing.
  • Customizable subscription plans: The subscription options are so convenient, and I never have to worry about running out because they show up right at my door, automatically.
  • Backed by women’s health experts: Needed is backed by clinical insights and recommended by over 6,000 healthcare practitioners, including OBGYNs, registered dietitians, midwives, and naturopathic doctors.

Cons

  • A bit pricey: Needed’s supplements are on the higher end, which can be a little more expensive than other brands, especially if you’re on a budget.
  • Capsule count: Some of the products require taking multiple capsules a day, which can feel like a lot, especially when you’re not feeling your best.

I’m officially in my second trimester, and honestly, it still feels a little unreal. After years of infertility and IVF, I never expected to get to this point, and I’m soaking it all in. When I found out I was pregnant last fall, one of the first things I did was think about how I could support my body and baby in the best way possible — and for me, that meant continuing with the highest quality supplements. I had been using Needed throughout my fertility journey, so it only felt right to continue incorporating the brand’s supplements during this next chapter.

If you’re unfamiliar, Needed offers high-quality, science-backed supplements to support women at every stage of their reproductive health. The company is based in Los Angeles and was founded in 2017 by two nutritionally trained mothers, Julie Sawaya and Ryan Woodbury. From fertility to pregnancy and beyond, Needed focuses on offering women the nutrients they need to thrive — especially when navigating some of life’s most transformative seasons. 

“Needed offers high-quality, science-backed supplements to support women at every stage of their reproductive health.”

What further sets the company apart, though, is its commitment to using bioavailable ingredients, which ensures that the nutrients you’re taking are actually absorbed and utilized by your body. Needed’s formulas are designed by experts based on the latest research and made with clean, organic ingredients whenever possible. They are also a certified B Corp and avoid fillers, synthetic additives, and questionable preservatives, focusing instead on ingredients that are not only effective but also gentle and nourishing. Each supplement is thoughtfully crafted with women’s health experts to support women’s health through every stage of reproductive life—from fertility to pregnancy to postpartum care. 

Needed also manufactures in accordance with the FDA’s current Good Manufacturing Practices (cGMPs), which help ensure quality and safety. They test all products for quality and safety at third-party laboratories including tests for nutritional content, pesticides, herbicides, heavy metals, microbes, and other contaminants.

I’ve continued taking Needed’s bestselling products to support my body (and baby) throughout this pregnancy, and they’ve helped with everything from stress to sleep to hydration. Pregnancy can feel like a whirlwind, especially when navigating it for the first time, and so having these products to support my changing hormones and body has given me the boost I *need* to feel my best, both mentally and physically. 

“I’ve continued taking Needed’s bestselling products to support my body (and baby) throughout this pregnancy, and they’ve helped with everything from stress to sleep to hydration.”

Best of all, the discounted subscription options mean I never have to worry about running out of these supplements — it’s all delivered straight to my door. The automated deliveries and personalized options make staying healthy during pregnancy effortless, giving me one less thing to stress about. And Needed makes it even easier by offering bundled plans at discounted prices. You can shop by trimester or specific need (e.g., nausea support, lactation support).

If you’re on your own fertility or pregnancy journey or just need a little extra support, I’m excited to share how Needed has made this season of life feel a lot more manageable. Here are the best-sellers I rely on most. ✨

1. Prenatal Multi Capsules | $60/one month supply ($45+ with a subscription)

As someone who has been on a four-year fertility journey, I’ve tested a lot of prenatals — and trust me, not all are created equally. I’ve relied on Needed for years now and have been happy to continue with the prenatal capsules during my pregnancy. Each serving includes 26 optimal nutrients to support fertility, pregnancy, and postpartum. This includes 200mcg of active B12, 400mg of choline, 4,000 IUs of Vitamin D3 (2-4x what others include), 900mcg DFE of methylated form of folate, and minerals bound to glycine for best absorption and digestive comfort.

So yes! They are easy to digest and don’t have any gross aftertaste (the citrus flavor helps). The eight capsules a day can feel like a lot, especially if you have morning sickness, but I personally have found the ingredient list worth getting them down. That said, Need also offers a 3-capsule per day prenatal option, as well as a prenatal powder that can be blended into drinks.

A container of "Needed" prenatal multi capsules is on a table next to a vase and another similar container.
A container labeled "Prenatal Multi Capsules" with eight beige capsules on a white lid.
While eight capsules a day can be a lot, especially with morning sickness, the capsules are easy to digest with no aftertaste, thanks to a citrus flavor.

2. Prenatal Collagen Powder | $50/one month supply ($37+ with a subscription)

Throughout my pregnancy, I’ve been adding Needed’s Prenatal Collagen Protein to my one precious cup of morning coffee, and it’s honestly the easiest way to get extra protein without even thinking about it. It dissolves right in, has zero taste, and comes from grass-fed, pasture-raised bovine, so I know I’m getting high-quality collagen. It’s also third-party tested. 

With Types I, II, and III collagen peptides, it helps support my skin as my belly stretches, keeps my joints feeling good (a must because I have terrible sciatica), and even benefits my gut. It’s such a simple way to nourish both me and my baby without changing my routine at all. It’s designed to be taken along with the prenatal, omega-3, and pre/probiotic — which I’ll get to below!

A white container labeled "NEEDED." with an image of grass and text "Collagen Protein," sits on a white surface next to a ribbed glass vase with greenery.
A hand holding a scoop of white powder over an open container, next to a larger tub of the same powder, a round woven mat, and a closed white lid on a white surface.
Adding Needed’s Prenatal Collagen Protein to my morning coffee, and it’s been a super easy way to boost my protein intake. It dissolves effortlessly, has no taste, and comes from high-quality, grass-fed bovine collagen.

3. Omega-3 Softgel | $50/one month supply ($37+ with a subscription)

I’ve always known how important Omega-3s are during pregnancy, but I was worried about the fishy taste that some supplements have. Luckily, Needed’s Prenatal Omega-3 has zero fishy aftertaste, which has made adding it to my prenatal routine so much easier! Omega-3s, especially DHA and EPA, are essential for the baby’s brain, eye, and nervous system development, and they also help support my mood and overall inflammation during pregnancy. Also, Needed sources Omega-3s sustainably from wild-caught fish and ensures everything is third-party tested for purity — that’s a huge deal for me. It feels good knowing I’m getting high-quality, responsibly sourced nutrition without having to deal with any unpleasant taste.

A hand holds a container of Needed Omega-3 dietary supplement softgels. Other similar containers are blurred in the background on a round table.
Two yellow capsules on a white plastic lid, next to a container with a label featuring a water image and text "Dietary Supplement.
Thankfully, Needed’s Prenatal Omega-3 has no fishy aftertaste, making it much easier to add to my routine so I can get the DHA and EPA that are key for my baby’s brain, eye, and nervous system development.

4. Prenatal Pre/Probiotic |  $60/one month supply ($45+ with a subscription)

The pre and probiotic have been a game-changer for my digestion during pregnancy. I had so much bloating in my first trimester due to IVF drugs and supplemental progesterone. As soon as I added this supplement, though, I noticed the bloating go down and my bathroom trips became more *regular.* Prebiotics and probiotics are super important during pregnancy for keeping the gut healthy and supporting the immune system. 

Needed’s strains include 30B CFUs and are backed by clinical research. They are formulated in partnership with leading perinatal and microbiome experts and support key perinatal needs like vaginal balance, digestive comfort, and iron absorption. You can bet this is one of the many supplements I will continue taking after birth to support postpartum and reset my gut health as well.

A white container labeled "NEEDED" containing pre/probiotic dietary supplement capsules.
Open container filled with brown capsules on a white surface, with closed containers labeled "Immune Support" and "Sleep-Relaxation Support" in the background.
After dealing with bloating from IVF drugs and progesterone in my first trimester, I noticed a big improvement in bloating and regularity once I added this supplement.

5. Sleep + Relaxation Support | $50/one month supply ($37+ with a subscription)

I’ve heard about pregnancy insomnia, but I had no idea how tough it could be until it hit me. In my first trimester, I was out like a light most nights, but once the second trimester rolled around, things changed. From restless leg syndrome to night sweats to vivid dreams, I went from being a deep sleeper to waking up constantly. This little baby is already keeping me up at night! 

Thankfully, Needed’s Sleep + Relaxation Support has been a total game-changer. I mix a scoop into a cup of hot water each night, and it’s become such a relaxing ritual, especially during these winter months. It has a gentle sweetness to it and includes magnesium and L-theanine, which are great for calming my mind. I love that it’s science-backed with safe, effective ingredients to promote better sleep and overall cognitive health. My doctor’s on board, and I am too—while I still have a few restless nights here and there, I’m definitely getting more restful sleep.

A white container labeled "NEEDED. Sleep + Relaxation Support" is placed on a white surface next to a ribbed glass vase with leaves.
A white container labeled "NEEDED" with a floral design is open on a table. A scoop of white powder is beside it, with some powder spilled on the surface.
I mix a scoop of Needed’s Sleep + Relaxation Support into hot water each night, and it’s become a calming ritual. The formula includes magnesium and L-theanine to help relax my mind, and it’s science-backed with safe ingredients for better sleep and cognitive health.

6. Immune Support | $57/one month supply ($43+ with a subscription)

Over the holidays, my family caught norovirus, and I somehow managed to avoid it, even with all the travel and winter colds going around. I truly think Needed’s Immune Support has played a huge role in keeping me healthy during this busy, stressful time. As someone going through IVF (a high-risk pregnancy), I’m especially anxious about getting sick, so boosting my immune system is more important than ever. 

Needed’s Immune Support is packed with research-backed ingredients like vitamin C, elderberry, and zinc, all of which are great for supporting my immune system. Plus, it tastes delicious even when mixed with water, and it’s safe for everyone! My husband takes it as well but I could see how this would be especially useful while pregnant with a toddler at home.

A white container labeled "NEEDED" for immune support, elderberry flavor, dietary supplement, 4.66 oz (132 g).
Container labeled "Immune Support" next to a scoop of powder on a white surface.
The formula includes research-backed ingredients like vitamin C, elderberry, and zinc, all great for immune support. It tastes delicious mixed with water and is safe for everyone—my husband takes it too!

7. Hydration Support | $45/one month supply ($34+ with a subscription)

Staying hydrated during pregnancy is so much more essential than I realized. I’ve noticed that when I’m not adequately hydrated, I feel more tired, my skin suffers, and my digestion gets off track. The Hydration Support has made it much easier, though. The flavor is light and refreshing, with a subtle hint of citrus, and it’s packed with electrolytes and coconut water powder, which helps replenish what I lose during the day. With this, I’m able to drink more water and feel better, knowing I’m supporting my body and my baby in the process. Oh, and the travel packs make it easy to stuff one in my bag for on-the-go!

Box of NEDED Hydration Support on a table with three colorful sachets in front, next to a vase with green leaves.
A frothy pink drink in a cup, surrounded by containers labeled "Needed." A hand holds an opened "Needed" packet above the cup.
The Hydration Support has made it much easier to stay hydrated with their convenient packs and the light, refreshing citrus flavor.

“I was determined to take the best care of my body and baby, and Needed has been a game-changer.”

Honestly, these supplements have been a total game-changer for me during pregnancy.

After years of IVF and a lot of ups and downs on my fertility journey, I was determined to take the best care of my body and baby. It’s like having a little extra support team in my corner — physically and mentally — making sure I feel good from the inside out.

If you’re in the same boat or just want to give your body the best, I can’t recommend Needed enough. It’s the peace of mind I never knew I needed — and I’m so glad to have this brand for support during this journey.

THIS STORY IS IN PARTNERSHIP WITH OUR FRIENDS AT Needed

Kayti Christian is a Senior Content Strategist at The Good Trade. With an MFA in Nonfiction Creative Writing, her work has appeared in TODAY, Shondaland, and The New York Times. Since 2017, Kayti has been uncovering and reviewing the best sustainable home brands and wellness products. Her personal journey through four years of fertility treatments has inspired her to write extensively about women’s healthcare and reproductive access. Beyond her work at The Good Trade, Kayti is the creator of Feelings Not Aside, a Substack newsletter with 6,000 subscribers, and the cohost of the FriedEggs Podcast, which delves into IVF and infertility.