Controlled Trial of Prenatal Vitamin D3 Supplementation to Prevent Vitamin D Deficiency in Mothers and Their Infants

High Prevalence of Rickets and Subclinical Maternal and Childhood Vitamin D Deficiency in the Middle East: a Randomized Controlled Trial of Prenatal Vitamin D Supplementation to Prevent Vitamin D Deficiency in Mothers and Their Infants

The purpose of this research study is to compare the effects of higher dose vitamin D with commonly recommended dose in pregnant women to see which is better in achieving and/or maintaining sufficient vitamin D blood levels during pregnancy and in newborn infants as well as improving growth in the infant.

Three dosages of Vitamin D will be administered; 400IU, 2000IU and 4000IU per day to pregnant women starting at less than 16 week gestation continued until delivery. The dose will be provided using a randomized control method. Serum levels of 25 hydroxy D will be measured in mothers at 12, 16, 28 and delivery. Cord blood 25 hydroxy D and the infants' birthweight, length and head circumference will be measured at birth.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Women who are within the ages of 18-45 years
• In good general health
• 12 weeks pregnant (based on last menstrual period)

Exclusion Criteria:

• Mothers with preexisting type I or type II diabetes
• Mothers with preexisting hypertension
• Mothers with preexisting parathyroid disease or uncontrolled thyroid disease
• Mothers with multiple fetuses (e.g., twins, triplets, etc.)