Clinical Report: Low maternal vitamin D may contribute to preterm delivery

Overview

A retrospective cohort study indicates that lower maternal vitamin D concentrations are associated with earlier gestational age at delivery. The study analyzed data from 15,506 women and found that lower vitamin D levels correlate with increased odds of preterm birth.

Background

Vitamin D insufficiency during pregnancy is a significant public health concern, with varying prevalence influenced by multiple factors. Insufficient vitamin D levels have been linked to adverse pregnancy outcomes, including preterm birth.

Data Highlights

Key Findings

• Mean maternal 25(OH)D concentration was 34.8 ng/mL for term deliveries.
• Women delivering at 32-36 weeks had a mean concentration of 31.3 ng/mL.
• Women delivering before 32 weeks had a significantly lower mean concentration of 26.2 ng/mL.
• 45% of women had at least one 25(OH)D measurement below 30 ng/mL.
• 66% of women had at least one measurement below 40 ng/mL.
• The inverse association between maternal 25(OH)D concentration and preterm birth persisted after adjusting for confounding factors.

Clinical Implications

The study's retrospective nature limits causal inferences, and further prospective studies are warranted.

Conclusion

This study contributes to the understanding of maternal vitamin D status and its potential association with preterm delivery.

Related Resources & Content

1. Borsum AG, et al., Journal of Perinatology, 2024 -- Low maternal vitamin D may contribute to preterm delivery
2. BMC Pregnancy and Childbirth — Vitamin D supplementation during pregnancy and maternal and neonatal outcomes: results from a quantitative umbrella meta-analysis
3. Endocrine Reviews — Effects of Maternal Vitamin D Supplementation on Childhood Health
4. MDSpire News — Low Vitamin D Levels May Be Tied to Gestational Diabetes
5. MDSpire News — Potential Link Between Vitamin D Levels and Miscarriage Risk
6. Vitamin D supplementation during pregnancy and maternal and neonatal outcomes: results from a quantitative umbrella meta-analysis
7. Effects of Maternal Vitamin D Supplementation on Childhood Health
8. Low Vitamin D Levels May Be Tied to Gestational Diabetes
9. Evidence and recommendation on antenatal vitamin D supplements - WHO antenatal care recommendations for a positive pregnancy experience
10. Vitamin D Supplementation in Pregnancy and Lactation and Infant Growth | New England Journal of Medicine
11. Science Update: Low vitamin D levels in early pregnancy linked to preterm birth risk | NICHD - Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development