Vitamin D supplementation in pregnancy
Related Experiment Video
Updated: Oct 16, 2026

A Method of Trigonometric Modelling of Seasonal Variation Demonstrated with Multiple Sclerosis Relapse Data
Published on: December 9, 2015
1Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Zimbabwe, PO Box A178, Avondale, Harare, Zimbabwe. kmahomed@healthnet.zw
Background:
Vitamin D deficiency can occur in people whose diet is relatively low in the vitamin and those who are not exposed to much sunlight.
Objectives:
The objective of this review was to assess the effects of vitamin D supplementation on pregnancy outcome.
Search Strategy:
We searched the Cochrane Pregnancy and Childbirth Group trials register and the Cochrane Controlled Trials Register (October 1998).
Selection Criteria:
Acceptably controlled trials of vitamin D supplementation during pregnancy.
Data Collection And Analysis:
One reviewer assessed trial quality and extracted data.
Main Results:
Two trials involving 232 women were included. In one trial the mothers had higher mean daily weight gain and lower number of low birthweight infants. In the other trial the supplemented group had lower birthweights.
Reviewer'S Conclusions:
There is not enough evidence to evaluate the effects of vitamin D supplementation during pregnancy.
Related Concept Videos
Role of Skin in Vitamin D Synthesis
The solar UV B rays (290-315 nm) are absorbed by the skin, and 7-dehydrocholesterol (provitamin D3) photolyzes it to previtamin D3, which undergoes a rapid transformation to vitamin D3(cholecalciferol).
Vitamins
Role of Vitamins in Maintaining Bone Health
Vitamin A
Vitamin A is involved in the process of bone remodeling. Retinoic acid, the active metabolite of Vitamin A, has nuclear receptors in osteoblasts and osteoclasts, which are involved in bone remodeling.
Vitamin B12
Vitamin B12 acts as a cofactor during the formation of osteoblast-related proteins, such as osteocalcin. Vitamin B12 plays a role...
Teratogenicity
Drug Dosing: Infants and Children
Diabetes Mellitus: Type 2 and Gestational