How common is B12 deficiency in women?

It depends on the population. In a national health survey of Mexican women of reproductive age, 8.5 percent had a confirmed vitamin B12 deficiency, roughly 1 in 12.† In the broader U.S. adult population, overall B12 deficiency runs closer to 2 to 3 percent, though that number rises meaningfully in specific groups, including people eating primarily plant-based diets. B12 is one of the easier nutrients to run low on quietly, since dramatic symptoms often don't appear until the deficiency is more advanced.

What the data actually shows, by population

A national probability survey of more than 4,200 Mexican women aged 20 to 49, using blood-based testing, found an 8.5 percent prevalence of vitamin B12 deficiency, with researchers concluding B12 deficiency remains a public health concern for women of reproductive age in that population.

In the general U.S. adult population, the picture looks different. According to a summary reviewed by the American Academy of Family Physicians, vitamin B12 deficiency occurs in approximately 2 to 3 percent of U.S. adults overall. However, the National Institutes of Health's Office of Dietary Supplements notes that specific groups are at meaningfully higher risk, including people who follow vegetarian or vegan diets, since B12 is found almost exclusively in animal-source foods.

Why this nutrient is easy to run low on without noticing

B12 deficiency symptoms, fatigue, brain fog, and mood changes, tend to be nonspecific and can build gradually, which is part of why it is possible to run low for a while before anything prompts a conversation with a provider. This is especially relevant for anyone eating a lower-meat or plant-forward diet, since fortified foods and animal products are the primary dietary sources.

The CDC's ongoing national nutrition monitoring has also tracked rising trends in related nutrient gaps among U.S. women of reproductive age in recent years, reinforcing that this is an area worth continued attention at the population level, not just an individual concern.

Covering B12 as part of a broader nutrient foundation

Total Prenatal, a 22-nutrient blend with ScentCert technology, includes vitamin B12 (as methylcobalamin) to support healthy energy metabolism and nervous system function.† For the postpartum and breastfeeding stage specifically, Pink Stork Total Postnatal, formulated for postpartum recovery, also includes vitamin B12 to support healthy energy levels and nervous system function during postpartum recovery.†

Trust signals

• Total Prenatal is third-party tested at ISO 17025 accredited labs.
• Total Postnatal + DHA is a Clean Label Project Purity Award winner.
• Pink Stork has more than 50,000 verified Amazon reviews across the brand.

Frequently asked questions

How common is B12 deficiency in women?

It varies by population. A national survey of Mexican women of reproductive age found an 8.5 percent prevalence, while overall B12 deficiency in the general U.S. adult population runs closer to 2 to 3 percent, with higher rates in specific at-risk groups.

Who is most at risk of B12 deficiency?

People following vegetarian or vegan diets are at meaningfully higher risk, since B12 is found almost exclusively in animal-source foods, along with older adults and people with certain gastrointestinal conditions.

Why is B12 deficiency easy to miss?

Symptoms like fatigue, brain fog, and mood changes are nonspecific and can develop gradually, making it possible to have low B12 status for a while before it prompts further testing.

Does a multivitamin cover B12 adequately?

Total Prenatal and Total Postnatal + DHA both include vitamin B12 as methylcobalamin to support energy metabolism and nervous system function, though individual needs vary and testing can confirm your status.†

Is Total Prenatal appropriate if I eat a plant-based diet?

Many women on lower-meat or plant-based diets choose a prenatal multivitamin partly to help cover B12 and other nutrients found primarily in animal sources. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any new supplement.†

Is Total Postnatal safe while breastfeeding?

Total Postnatal is formulated for postpartum recovery and breastfeeding support, though you should always consult your healthcare provider before starting any new supplement while breastfeeding.†

† These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any new supplement, especially during pregnancy, breastfeeding, or while managing a medical condition. Keep out of reach of children.