Best Collagen for Pregnancy: 5 Clean, Easy-to-Mix Picks

Can I take collagen while pregnant?

Many people do, but the right answer is personal. Collagen peptides are essentially a protein supplement, and plain, unflavored collagen is generally straightforward compared with multi-ingredient “beauty blends.” Still, pregnancy is not the time to guess: check with your OB or midwife first, especially if you have kidney issues, food allergies (fish, egg), a history of severe nausea, or you are on a medically directed diet.

If you get the green light, choose a product with a short ingredient list and avoid formulas that pile on herbs, “detox” ingredients, stimulants, or megadose vitamins.

What type of collagen is best for pregnancy: bovine, marine, or multi-collagen?

For most people, the best choice is the one you will actually take consistently without upsetting your stomach. Bovine collagen peptides (commonly types I and III) are usually the most neutral in flavor and the easiest to find in plain, single-ingredient powders. Marine collagen is a solid option if you avoid beef, but it can taste or smell more noticeable and it is not a fit for fish allergies.

Multi-collagen blends can be convenient, but they often bring more allergen exposure (fish, egg) and sometimes more flavor, which matters when you are sensitive to smells.

Does collagen prevent or treat stretch marks during pregnancy?

Collagen is often marketed for stretch marks, but the evidence is not strong enough to treat it like a proven fix. Stretch marks are heavily influenced by genetics, skin elasticity, and how quickly the skin stretches. Collagen can help you meet protein goals and may support overall skin structure over time, but it is not a guarantee.

If stretch marks are a concern, the most practical approach is to focus on steady weight gain as advised by your clinician, moisturize consistently for comfort (itch relief is a real win), and prioritize enough overall protein, fluids, and micronutrients from your prenatal plan.

How much collagen should I take while pregnant?

Follow your clinician’s guidance and the product label, and consider starting smaller than the label suggests to see how your body reacts. In real life, tolerance is the limiting factor during pregnancy, not motivation. Some people feel great taking collagen daily; others notice bloating, reflux, or a lingering aftertaste and do better with a smaller amount or every other day.

Also remember what collagen is and is not. It can count toward your daily protein intake, but it is not a complete protein on its own. Keep your overall diet doing the heavy lifting with a mix of high-quality protein sources that fit your pregnancy plan.

What is the easiest way to take collagen when I feel nauseated?

Go for unflavored collagen peptides and mix them into something you already tolerate well. Many people do best with a cold-start method: stir into a small amount of cool water or milk first to fully wet the powder, then add it to coffee, tea, oatmeal, or a smoothie. This helps reduce clumps and the “foamy” texture that can be a dealbreaker when you are queasy.

If smell is a trigger, skip marine options and any flavored “beauty” blends. Keep it boring: plain collagen, a familiar drink, and a small serving to start.