Document Type
Journal Article
Publication Title
British Journal of Midwifery
Publisher
MA Healthcare Ltd
School
School of Nursing and Midwifery / Centre for Nursing, Midwifery and Health Services Research
RAS ID
31689
Abstract
Vitamin D deficiency is widely recognised as a major public health issue around the world; and is essential for optimal development and strengthening of the musculoskeletal system including the prevention of conditions such as osteoporosis, osteopenia and rickets. The association between vitamin D and childhood rickets has led to the fortification of food sources and consequently the eradication of the rickets disease. Vitamin D levels are of particular importance for pregnant women, especially for the development of the bone and muscle development of the fetus. In the last decade there has been a substantial increase in the incidence of vitamin D deficiency and the re-emergence of the childhood rickets disease. It is vital that vitamin D levels are at optimal levels during pregnancy as maternal calcium demands increase significantly to meet the demands of the developing fetus, especially in the third trimester.
DOI
10.12968/bjom.2020.28.6.353
Comments
This document is the Accepted Manuscript version of a Published Work that appeared in final form in the British Journal of Midwifery, copyright © MA Healthcare, after peer review and technical editing by the publisher. To access the final edited and published work see https://doi.org/10.12968/bjom.2020.28.6.353 .
Jarvis, G., & Geraghty, S. (2020). Importance of vitamin D during the antenatal period for maternal well-being. British Journal of Midwifery, 28(6), 353-358. https://doi.org/10.12968/bjom.2020.28.6.353