Back to all foods
Is Swordfish, marlin, shark safe in pregnancy?
Best avoided
No — these high-mercury fish should be avoided in pregnancy.
What the evidence says
Swordfish, marlin, and shark contain significantly more mercury than other fish and should be avoided entirely during pregnancy and when trying to conceive.
Why this matters
These are large predatory fish that accumulate high levels of mercury. Mercury can damage the developing nervous system of the baby.
Source:NHS guidance on fish in pregnancy
Last reviewed:April 2026
Please note — This is general guidance based on NHS advice as of April 2026. It is not medical advice. For advice on your specific pregnancy, please speak to your midwife or GP.
Personalised support
Planning a pregnancy or trying to conceive?
General guidance is a starting point. If you'd like nutrition support built around your own situation, I'd be glad to help.