Can You Eat Swordfish When Pregnant?
Reviewed against NHS foods-to-avoid guidance · Updated September 2026
Nutritional data sourced from USDA FoodData Central and Public Health England. Always consult a registered dietitian for personal dietary advice.
No — the NHS says to avoid Swordfish completely during pregnancy because it contains high levels of mercury.
Why is swordfish a concern in pregnancy?
Swordfish is a large, long-lived predatory fish and contains more mercury than most other fish. Too much mercury can affect the development of your baby's nervous system, which is why the NHS advises avoiding Swordfish entirely while pregnant or trying for a baby.
You can also check the calorie content of swordfish alongside its safety information. Also check medication safety during pregnancy if you're managing any conditions.
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Pregnancy essentials
Pregnancy multivitamin
The NHS advises 400µg of folic acid daily — easiest as one daily tablet.
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More pregnancy essentials
Baby-safe food thermometer
Useful for pregnancy cooking checks and later for baby food.
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Common questions
Can I eat swordfish in the first trimester?
Yes — the advice to avoid Swordfish applies to all of pregnancy, and mercury exposure in the first trimester is particularly worth avoiding as the nervous system is forming.
Is a small amount of swordfish OK during pregnancy?
The NHS advises avoiding Swordfish altogether during pregnancy rather than limiting it.
I accidentally ate swordfish while pregnant — what should I do?
A single portion is very unlikely to cause any harm — the concern is repeated exposure over time. Simply avoid it for the rest of your pregnancy and mention it to your midwife if you're worried.
Is cooked swordfish safe in pregnancy?
Cooking does not remove mercury, so Swordfish should be avoided during pregnancy whether cooked or not.
Related answers
Primary source: NHS foods-to-avoid guidance.
The information on 247foodcheck.com is compiled from official public guidance (NHS, Food Standards Agency, USDA/FDA FoodKeeper) and is provided for general information only. It is not medical advice and does not replace guidance from your midwife, GP, health visitor or other qualified professional. When in doubt, throw it out — and if you feel unwell after eating something, contact NHS 111 or your doctor.