Vitamin D in pregnant women from extreme areas of latitude: review from midwifery

Abstract

Insufficient vitamin D levels occur in 88.1% of the world’s population, which constitutes a global public health problem. We analyzed vitamin D deficiency and suggested vitamin D supplementation in the perinatal health of pregnant women living in geographical areas higher than 40° south-north latitude according to reviews from the last three decades and identifying midwives’ role. The methodology used was a qualitative systematic review of full text studies, conducted in geographical areas higher than 40°N and 40°S. Descriptors such as: “deficiency”, “vitamin D”, “pregnancy”, “causes”, “perinatal outcomes” and “supplementation”, and their respective descriptors in Spanish. The matrices were tabulated according to the modified PRISMA. Eight studies were obtained in English from the Northern Hemisphere only, mostly with good quality evidence and related to the role of midwifing according to the expert round. The results showed risks such as: origin of the pregnant woman, ethnicity, low sun exposure, obesity, socioeconomic status, and perinatal risks. No studies were found in pregnant women from the Southern Hemisphere or related to the role of the midwife in this area. In conclusion, midwifery should considerer the social determinants of vitamin D deficiency in pregnant women, especially those in extreme southern areas where incorporation of supplementation are suggested as a public policy.

Keywords

• Vitamin D. Pregnant women. Vitamin D deficiency. Latitude. Perinatal risks. Midwifery.