Vitamin D-Related Risk Factors for Maternal Morbidity during Pregnancy: A Systematic Review

Area of Science:

• Obstetrics and Gynecology
• Nutritional Science
• Public Health

Background:

• Maternal morbidity is a global health concern.
• Vitamin D deficiency in pregnancy is linked to adverse outcomes.
• Existing evidence on vitamin D's role in pregnancy is complex.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically map evidence on vitamin D deficiency and pregnancy outcomes.
• To analyze vitamin D dosages used in relevant studies.
• To assess the impact of vitamin D on maternal health during pregnancy.

Main Methods:

• Systematic literature search across PubMed, Cochrane, and Embase.
• Screening of 215 articles, with 28 meeting inclusion criteria.
• Focus on 14 original research studies published between 2012-2021.
• Adherence to PRISMA guidelines and SING methodology for quality assessment.

Main Results:

• Evidence supports vitamin D supplementation for pregnant women.
• Reduced risk of gestational diabetes, hypertension, and preeclampsia observed.
• Lower incidence of early labor and other pregnancy complications noted.
• Adequate vitamin D levels appear to promote healthy pregnancy outcomes.

Conclusions:

• Supplementary vitamin D is important for mitigating pregnancy complications.
• Sufficient vitamin D status may be a key factor in achieving a healthy pregnancy.
• Further research confirms the non-classical benefits of vitamin D in obstetrics.