Pregnant and breastfeeding mothers may be deficient in iodine, according to new research.

The study of 587 new mothers involved an initial interview and follow-up interviews at four, ten, 16, 22, 40 and 52 weeks postpartum.

Researchers found that 80% of new mothers took a folic acid supplement during pregnancy and 21% took an iron supplement. No mothers reported taking iodine supplements.

Doctors in Australia recommend a daily intake of iodine during pregnancy and breastfeeding to ensure sufficient iodine content in the milk for optimal child development, particularly of the nervous system.