Adverse Maternal Outcomes Associated with Vitamin D Deficiency

Abstract

Vitamin D deficiency is highly prevalent among pregnant women globally, particularly in regions with limited sunlight exposure, darker skin pigmentation, cultural clothing practices, and insufficient dietary intake. Maternal vitamin D levels influence calcium homeostasis, immune responses, angiogenesis, placental development, and metabolic regulation. Deficiency during pregnancy has been linked to increased risk of hypertensive disorders, altered glucose regulation, increased susceptibility to infections, and psychological disturbances. Understanding these associations is essential to improving maternal outcomes and guiding antenatal care protocols.