Can Collagen Be Taken During Pregnancy? What You Should Know

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. The Role of Collagen in the Human Body
3. Is Collagen Safe During Pregnancy?
4. Supporting Skin Elasticity and the "Stretch"
5. Joint and Ligament Support During the Adventure
6. Meeting Increased Protein Demands
7. The Importance of Glycine for Fetal Development
8. Sourcing Matters: Why We Choose Grass-Fed
9. Optimizing Absorption with Vitamin C
10. Managing Digestive Wellness
11. Hydration and Electrolytes
12. Collagen and Postpartum Recovery
13. The BUBS Difference: More Than Just a Supplement
14. How to Choose the Best Collagen for Pregnancy
15. Practical Ways to Use Collagen Every Day
16. Collagen and the Future: A Legacy of Wellness
17. Conclusion
18. FAQ

Introduction

Did you know that during the course of a normal pregnancy, the collagen content in a woman’s uterus increases by a staggering 800%? It is an anatomical feat of engineering that rarely gets the spotlight it deserves. While most of the conversation around prenatal wellness focuses on folic acid and iron, the structural protein that literally holds the growing "womb" together is working overtime. This dramatic biological shift is just one reason why so many expectant mothers are asking: can collagen be taken during pregnancy?

At BUBS Naturals, we view pregnancy as the ultimate adventure—a marathon of physical and emotional transformation that requires the cleanest, most effective fuel possible. We built our brand on the legacy of Glen “BUB” Doherty, a man who lived for the challenge and always looked for ways to perform at his peak. We carry that same "no-BS" approach into our supplements, ensuring that everything we produce is grounded in quality and transparency. Whether you are scaling a mountain or navigating the three trimesters of pregnancy, your body deserves ingredients that support its natural functions without compromise.

The purpose of this article is to provide a comprehensive look at the safety, benefits, and practical considerations of using collagen during pregnancy. We will explore how this essential protein supports your changing body, the role it plays in fetal development, and what to look for when selecting a supplement to ensure it meets the highest safety standards. By the end of this post, you will understand how to integrate collagen into your routine safely and why quality—specifically third-party testing—is non-negotiable during this season of life.

We will cover the science of collagen types, the unique demands pregnancy places on your joints and skin, and how to optimize absorption through proper nutrition. We will also touch on the postpartum period, because the adventure doesn’t end at delivery. Our goal is to empower you with the knowledge to make the best choice for you and your baby.

The Role of Collagen in the Human Body

To understand if you should supplement with collagen while pregnant, we first have to understand what it is. Collagen is the most abundant protein in the human body, accounting for roughly one-third of our total protein composition. Think of it as the "glue" that provides structure to your skin, hair, nails, bones, ligaments, and tendons. Without it, we would quite literally fall apart.

There are at least 28 different types of collagen, but the vast majority of the collagen in your body consists of Types I, II, and III. Type I is the heavy hitter, found in your skin, bones, and connective tissues. Type II is primarily focused on cartilage and joint health, while Type III works alongside Type I in your muscles and blood vessels. For an expectant mother, Type I and Type III are particularly relevant because they are the building blocks for the rapidly expanding tissues of the uterus and the skin.

As we age, our natural collagen production begins to taper off. This is a normal part of life, but when you add the physiological stress of pregnancy to the mix, your body’s internal "collagen bank" can feel the strain. Your body begins prioritizing the baby’s development, which can sometimes leave your own tissues—like your joints and skin—feeling less than optimal. This is where our Collagen Peptides come into play, offering a clean way to support your body’s natural structural integrity.

Is Collagen Safe During Pregnancy?

The short answer is that collagen is generally considered safe for pregnant women. Because collagen is a protein already found in your body and in the foods you eat, like bone broth and meat, it is not a foreign substance. However, the "safety" of any supplement during pregnancy is only as good as the sourcing and manufacturing behind it.

When you are pregnant, your body becomes more sensitive to environmental toxins and additives. This is why we are so obsessed with our "no-BS" approach. Many collagen products on the market are filled with artificial sweeteners, flavors, and fillers that have no place in a prenatal diet. Furthermore, heavy metal contamination is a real concern in the supplement industry.

At BUBS Naturals, we take safety seriously. Our Collagen Peptides are NSF for Sport Certified. This is one of the most rigorous third-party certifications in the world. It ensures that what is on the label is exactly what is in the tub and, more importantly, that the product is free from contaminants and banned substances. For a pregnant woman, this certification provides the peace of mind that she is consuming a clean, high-quality protein.

While the general consensus among healthcare providers is that collagen is safe, we always recommend having a conversation with your OB-GYN or midwife before starting any new supplement. Every pregnancy is unique, and your provider can help you determine the right dosage based on your overall protein intake and health history.

Supporting Skin Elasticity and the "Stretch"

One of the most visible changes during pregnancy is the stretching of the skin. As your baby grows, your skin must expand at a rapid rate, particularly across the abdomen, hips, and breasts. This expansion can lead to the breakdown of collagen and elastin fibers in the dermis, resulting in what we commonly know as stretch marks.

While genetics play a significant role in how your skin responds to pregnancy, providing your body with the raw materials it needs to maintain skin elasticity is a proactive way to support your skin's health. Collagen is rich in specific amino acids—glycine, proline, and hydroxyproline—that are essential for skin repair and regeneration.

By incorporating our Collagen Peptides into your daily routine, you are supporting the structural framework of your skin from the inside out. Unlike topical creams that often struggle to penetrate the deeper layers of the skin, oral collagen peptides are broken down and absorbed into the bloodstream, where they can be utilized by the cells responsible for collagen synthesis. This internal support helps maintain the suppleness and resilience of your skin during this period of intense change.

Joint and Ligament Support During the Adventure

If you’ve ever felt like your joints are "looser" during pregnancy, you aren't imagining it. Your body produces a hormone called relaxin, which does exactly what the name suggests: it relaxes your ligaments and joints to prepare the pelvis for childbirth. While this is a brilliant biological adaptation, it can lead to instability, aches, and pains in the hips, lower back, and knees.

As your center of gravity shifts and your weight increases, your joints are under more pressure than ever before. Collagen is a critical component of the cartilage that cushions your joints and the ligaments that hold your bones together. Supplementing with collagen can help support these connective tissues, potentially making your daily movements more comfortable as you navigate the physical demands of pregnancy.

Imagine your morning routine. You wake up, perhaps feeling a bit stiff. You head to the kitchen and mix a scoop of our Collagen Peptides into your morning coffee or tea. To make it even more supportive of your energy levels, you might add our MCT Oil Creamer for sustained mental clarity and healthy fats. This simple ritual isn't just about the caffeine; it’s about giving your joints the structural support they need for the day's adventure, whether that’s a walk in the park or just managing the household.

Meeting Increased Protein Demands

Pregnancy isn't just a time of growth for the baby; it’s a time of massive physiological expansion for the mother. Your blood volume increases by nearly 50%, your uterus grows significantly, and you are developing a brand-new organ—the placenta. All of this requires protein.

Standard nutritional guidelines often suggest that pregnant women need significantly more protein than non-pregnant women, with some studies suggesting upwards of 70 to 100 grams per day depending on the trimester. For many, especially those dealing with morning sickness or food aversions, hitting those numbers through whole foods alone can be a challenge.

Collagen is an excellent supplemental protein source because it is typically very easy on the stomach and virtually tasteless. Our Collagen Peptides dissolve instantly in both hot and cold liquids, making them an easy addition to a smoothie, a bowl of oatmeal, or even a glass of water. It provides a concentrated dose of amino acids without the heaviness of a thick dairy-based protein shake, which can be a lifesaver when you're feeling nauseous.

The Importance of Glycine for Fetal Development

While we often focus on the benefits for the mother, the amino acids found in collagen are also vital for the developing baby. Glycine, in particular, is an amino acid that becomes "conditionally essential" during pregnancy. This means that while the body can usually make enough glycine on its own, the demands of a growing fetus often exceed the mother’s natural production capacity.

Glycine is required for the synthesis of fetal DNA and collagen. It also plays a role in the development of the baby’s skeleton and connective tissues. By ensuring you have an adequate supply of these amino acids, you are supporting the foundational blueprint of your baby’s physical structure. This is the ultimate "giving back"—providing your child with the building blocks they need to start their own journey of health and wellness.

Sourcing Matters: Why We Choose Grass-Fed

When you are eating for two, the source of your food matters more than ever. We believe in transparency and quality, which is why our collagen is sourced exclusively from grass-fed, pasture-raised bovine hides. Why does this matter? Animals that are raised on pasture without the use of hormones or unnecessary antibiotics produce a cleaner, higher-quality product.

Our Collagen Peptides Collection represents our commitment to these values. We don’t cut corners. We use a gentle enzymatic process to break the collagen down into smaller peptides, making it "hydrolyzed." This ensures maximum bioavailability, meaning your body can actually use what you’re consuming. When you choose BUBS, you aren't just buying a supplement; you're supporting a philosophy of clean, sustainable wellness that honors the environment and your body.

Optimizing Absorption with Vitamin C

Collagen doesn't work in a vacuum. To effectively build and repair collagen fibers, your body requires Vitamin C. Think of Vitamin C as the "on switch" for collagen synthesis. Without it, your body struggles to cross-link the amino acids into the strong, resilient fibers that support your skin and joints.

Many women choose to take their collagen alongside a source of Vitamin C. This could be as simple as adding a squeeze of lemon to your water or taking our Vitamin C supplement, which provides 500 mg of high-quality vitamin C with citrus bioflavonoids. This combination ensures that you are getting the most out of every scoop of Collagen Peptides.

During pregnancy, Vitamin C also supports your immune system and helps with iron absorption—two other critical factors for a healthy pregnancy. It’s a win-win for both you and the baby.

Managing Digestive Wellness

Digestion can be a bit of a rollercoaster during pregnancy. Hormonal shifts can slow down your digestive tract, leading to bloating and discomfort. Collagen is unique among proteins because it contains high levels of the amino acids glycine and glutamine, both of which are known to support the integrity of the gut lining.

Maintaining a healthy gut is essential for nutrient absorption, which is the cornerstone of prenatal health. If your gut is functioning optimally, you are better able to absorb the vitamins and minerals from your food and prenatal vitamins.

In addition to collagen, many of our customers find that incorporating Apple Cider Vinegar Gummies into their daily routine helps support their digestive wellness. Our gummies are made with "the Mother," ensuring you get the beneficial enzymes and probiotics associated with traditional liquid ACV, but in a much more palatable (and pregnancy-friendly) form.

Hydration and Electrolytes

While we are on the topic of wellness during the "ultimate adventure," we cannot overlook the importance of hydration. During pregnancy, your fluid needs increase significantly to support the increased blood volume and the amniotic fluid surrounding the baby.

Dehydration can lead to fatigue, headaches, and even braxton-hicks contractions. Plain water is great, but sometimes your body needs more—it needs electrolytes to maintain proper fluid balance. Our Hydration Collection was designed for high-performance recovery, and it fits perfectly into a prenatal wellness plan.

A serving of Hydrate or Die – Mixed Berry provides the essential salts and minerals your body needs without the added sugars found in typical sports drinks. It’s a clean way to stay hydrated throughout the day, whether you’re heading to a prenatal yoga class or just trying to get through a busy afternoon. Plus, it’s a great way to flavor your water if you’re struggling with the taste of plain water due to pregnancy aversions.

Collagen and Postpartum Recovery

The need for collagen doesn't end when the baby arrives. In fact, the "fourth trimester" is a period of intense healing and transition. Your body is working to shrink the uterus back to its original size, heal any tissues affected by delivery, and, for many, produce milk.

Postpartum hair loss is another common concern, driven by the dramatic drop in estrogen levels after birth. While collagen isn't a cure for hormonal shifts, providing your body with the amino acids that support hair and nail growth can help as your body re-regulates. Many of our customers continue using our Collagen Peptides long after delivery to support their recovery and help them feel like themselves again.

Breastfeeding mothers also have higher protein requirements than non-nursing women. A quick scoop of collagen in a morning smoothie is an easy, one-handed way to boost your protein intake while you’re busy caring for a newborn. It’s about simplicity and effectiveness—qualities that are essential during the early days of motherhood.

The BUBS Difference: More Than Just a Supplement

At the heart of BUBS Naturals is a mission that goes beyond selling products. We are named after Glen “BUB” Doherty, a Navy SEAL, hero, and adventurer who lost his life in Benghazi, Libya, in 2012. Glen lived his life with a sense of purpose and a commitment to helping others. We carry that legacy forward through our 10% Rule: we donate 10% of all our profits to veteran-focused charities.

When you choose BUBS, you are joining a community that values integrity, adventure, and giving back. We believe that wellness is a lifelong journey, and we are honored to be a small part of your journey through pregnancy and into parenthood. Whether you are using our Collagen Peptides to support your joints or our MCT Oil Creamer – 14 ct Travel Pack to keep you fueled on the go, you can trust that you are getting the very best.

How to Choose the Best Collagen for Pregnancy

With so many options on the market, it can be overwhelming to choose. Here is our "no-BS" checklist for selecting a collagen supplement during pregnancy:

1. Hydrolyzed Peptides: Look for "hydrolyzed" collagen. This means the protein has been broken down into smaller chains, making it easier for your body to digest and absorb.
2. Third-Party Testing: This is the most important factor. Ensure the product is tested for heavy metals and purity. Look for the NSF for Sport logo—it’s the gold standard.
3. Clean Ingredients: Avoid artificial sweeteners like sucralose or aspartame, and steer clear of artificial colors and flavors. You want 100% collagen peptides and nothing else.
4. Grass-Fed Sourcing: Choose bovine collagen that is grass-fed and pasture-raised. This ensures a higher quality of life for the animals and a cleaner product for you.
5. Solubility: A good collagen should dissolve completely without clumping. This makes it much easier to incorporate into your daily life.

Our Collagen Peptides check every one of these boxes. We designed them to be the most versatile, high-quality supplement on your shelf.

Practical Ways to Use Collagen Every Day

One of the reasons our community loves BUBS is because our products fit seamlessly into a busy life. You don’t need a complicated recipe to get the benefits. Here are a few "real-life" ways to use your collagen during pregnancy:

• The Morning Ritual: Stir a scoop of Collagen Peptides into your morning coffee or tea. Add a splash of our Butter MCT Oil Creamer for a creamy, rich texture and a boost of healthy fats that support brain health.
• The Pregnancy Smoothie: Blend a scoop of collagen with a cup of spinach, a handful of berries, some Greek yogurt, and a splash of almond milk. This is a nutrient-dense powerhouse that covers your protein, fiber, and antioxidant needs in one go.
• The Nightly Wind-Down: If you enjoy a warm mug of bone broth or herbal tea in the evening, stir in some collagen. It won't change the flavor, but it will provide a soothing boost of glycine before bed, which can support restful sleep.
• On-the-Go Hydration: Mix a stick of Hydrate or Die – Lemon with a scoop of collagen in your water bottle. It’s the perfect way to stay hydrated and fueled while running errands or heading to appointments.

Collagen and the Future: A Legacy of Wellness

The choices you make during pregnancy are about more than just your own health; they are about setting the foundation for your child’s future. By prioritizing clean, science-backed nutrition, you are modeling a lifestyle of wellness and purpose.

At BUBS Naturals, we are proud to support mothers in this vital mission. We believe that everyone—from elite athletes to new parents—deserves access to supplements that are held to the highest possible standard. Our commitment to excellence is our way of honoring Glen Doherty’s legacy, and we invite you to make it a part of your family’s legacy, too.

As you move through your pregnancy, remember that your body is doing something extraordinary. It is building a life, molecule by molecule. Giving your body the structural support of high-quality collagen is a simple, effective way to honor that process and ensure you feel your best for the adventure ahead.

Conclusion

So, can collagen be taken during pregnancy? The evidence points to a resounding yes. From supporting the 800% increase in uterine collagen to helping your skin maintain its elasticity and providing your joints with much-needed stability, collagen is a powerful ally for any expectant mother. It serves as a clean, versatile protein source that meets the increased nutritional demands of pregnancy while supporting the foundational development of your baby.

However, the key takeaway is that quality is everything. In a season of life where you are being extra careful about what you put into your body, you shouldn't have to guess about the purity of your supplements. Choosing a product like our Collagen Peptides, which is NSF for Sport Certified and sourced from grass-fed bovine, ensures that you are getting the benefits of collagen without any of the "BS."

As you navigate this incredible journey, we encourage you to listen to your body, consult with your healthcare providers, and choose supplements that align with your values. Whether you are looking for joint support, skin health, or a simple protein boost, we are here to support you every step of the way. Explore the full Collagen Peptides Collection and see how the BUBS difference can help you feel stronger and more resilient during your pregnancy and beyond.

FAQ

Does taking collagen prevent stretch marks during pregnancy? While no supplement can guaranteed to prevent stretch marks—as genetics and the rate of weight gain play significant roles—collagen is a key component of skin elasticity. By providing the body with the amino acids necessary to support the skin’s structural integrity, our Collagen Peptides help maintain the skin’s ability to stretch and recover, which may support overall skin health during and after pregnancy.

How many grams of collagen should I take daily while pregnant? Most studies on collagen supplementation use doses ranging from 10 to 20 grams per day. A single scoop of our Collagen Peptides typically provides about 10 grams of high-quality protein. We recommend discussing your specific protein needs with your OB-GYN or midwife to determine the best daily amount for your individual health goals and dietary intake.

Can I take collagen while I am breastfeeding? Yes, collagen is generally considered safe and highly beneficial for breastfeeding mothers. The increased protein demands of lactation make it an excellent supplemental source, and the amino acids in collagen can support postpartum tissue repair and skin health. Adding it to your morning routine with our MCT Oil Creamer is a great way to stay energized while caring for your new baby.

What is the best time of day to take my collagen supplement? There is no "wrong" time to take collagen, but many people find success by incorporating it into their morning ritual to ensure consistency. Mixing it into your morning coffee or a breakfast smoothie is a popular choice. Some also prefer taking it in the evening, as the amino acid glycine can support relaxation. Regardless of the time, the most important factor is daily consistency to allow the body to maintain its structural support.