Evaluation of the prevalence of vitamin d deficiency in pregnant women and its correlation with neonatal vitamin D levels

Abstract

Summary: Background: Sufficient levels of vitamin D (25-hydroxyvitamin D, 25(OH)D) are required during pregnancy to maintain fetal developmental and reduce adverse outcomes in fetus/neonates and mother. The present study aimed to determine the levels of vitamin D in pregnant women and neonates and evaluate the corresponding effects of vitamin D supplementations. Materials and Methods: This descriptive-analytical study, conducted in Asali Hospital, Khorramabad, included 77 pregnant women, between 15–45 years of the age, presented with the gestational age of 37–42. 5cc of the blood samples were obtained from the mothers during the labor and umbilical cord, postpartum. Demographic and medical data were obtained from the patients and results from the lab findings, based on the levels of 25(OH)D, were recorded in the questionnaire. Results: The mean concentration of 25(OH)D in pregnant women was 13 ng/ml and their neonates was 15 ng/ml. Overall, 60.9% of the mothers and neonates were reported to be 25(OH)D deficient whereas, 89% of the mothers and their newborns had insufficient vitamin D levels. The levels of 25(OH)D in the umbilical cord had a significant relationship with serum vitamin D levels. Maternal age, gestational age, body mass index and occupational status had no effect on maternal and neonatal vitamin D levels. Women under vitamin D supplementations (4000IU/day) had higher levels of vitamin D levels. conclusions: The mean concentration of vitamin D in pregnant women and infants is low and it is a direct correlated with umbilical cord blood vitamin D levels.