Vitamin D and maternal-fetal implications

Abstract

Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin and a presteroid hormone synthesized in the dermis under UVB rays. In terms of its endocrine functions, it has an important role in mineral homeostasis. Besides these effects, recent studies have found a series of non-calciotropic actions of vitamin D: modulation of autoimmune processes, promoting secretion and insulin action, pulmonary development, inhibition of malignant cells proliferation in various cancers, implications in maternal-fetal pathology. Recent studies have identified the association of vitamin D deficiency in pregnancy with a series of maternal complications (preeclampsia, bacterial vaginosis, gestational diabetes, increased risk of cesarean delivery) and fetal complications (affecting skeletal development and tooth enamel, impaired fetal growth). Also, newborns from mothers with vitamin D deficiency have an increased risk of tetany, hypocalcemia, with or without seizures and an increased susceptibility to respiratory diseases (asthma, bronchiolitis RSV). Conclusions: There is no current consensus on routine screening of vitamin D deficiency in pregnancy, nor the required dosage for vitamin D supplementation in pregnant women. All pregnant women should have a balanced diet and get vitamin D as part of prenatal vitamins. Their purpose is to increase the availability of calcidiol to the fetus and newborn with a beneficial role over the classic effects of vitamin D and possibly over the non-calciotropic ones.

Keywords

• vitamin d
• pregnancy
• preeclampsia