[Metabolic changes in bone and calcium in pregnancy and puerperium]

Calcium transfer from the mother to the fetus and neonate during pregnancy and lactation plays an extremely important role in the bone health of the mother and infant. Calcium aids in bone health through all ages but is especially crucial during pregnancy and lactation. Despite facing similar demands for calcium in pregnancy and puerperium, the maternal adaptations differ significantly between these two reproductive periods. Although the studies are underway to establish the conclusion, the changes in the structure and metabolism of bone and calcium during pregnancy and the early stage of postpartum are evaluated by investigating bone mineral density (BMD) , bone histomorphometry and bone markers of human or animal models. The bone resorption increased at the end of pregnancy and lactation, and the bone formation increases and the bone structure is almost recovered after cessation of lactating in postpartum. Vitamin D and parathyroid hormone-related protein (PTHrP) status especially becomes crucial for optimal maternal and fetal outcomes, fetal and neonatal skeletal growth, and maternal health in later life.