Assessment of Vitamin D Deficiency and its Effect on Maternal and Fetal Outcome among Antenatal Females Registered in Urban Health and Training Centre Ratlam.

Background: Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin involved in the regulation of calcium homeostasis and thus is essential for a healthy skeletal system. Low maternal vitamin D levels during pregnancy may be responsible for reduced fetal growth and may adversely affect neonatal development. Methodology: A cross-sectional study was conducted in 210 antenatal females registered at UHTC in four-month duration. The blood samples were tested for vitamin D levels using fluorescence immunoassay apart from routine ANC profile after obtaining prior consent from those women who were willing to participate. The demographic details, their dietary habits, and knowledge about vitamin D and its importance were recorded through a questionnaire. Their follow-up was performed till the delivery. Results: A total of 130 (61.9%) pregnant women had insufficient vitamin D levels (12-20 ng/mL). Fifty-six (26.6%) pregnant women were having vitamin D levels (20 ng/mL). The mean vitamin D (ng/mL) level in pregnant women was 14.3 ± 5.2 ng/mL. Fifty-six out 210 had LSCS as the mode of delivery, and 154 had vaginal delivery. Conclusion: There was a deficiency of vitamin D in most of the ANC mothers registered in UHTC. Regular adequate supplementation of vitamin D is needed during pregnancy. Lack of awareness is a major risk factor associated with vitamin D insufficiency.