Zinc supplementation during pregnancy
The central role of zinc in cell division, protein synthesis and growth means that an adequate supply of zinc is especially important for pregnant women. During pregnancy, zinc and other micronutrient deficiencies are common due to increased nutrient requirements of the mother and the developing fetus. These deficiencies can negatively impact pregnancy outcomes including the health of the mother and newborn infant.
The available evidence suggests that zinc supplementation during pregnancy may help to reduce preterm births in low-income settings, but does not prevent other suboptimal pregnancy outcomes including low-birth-weight or pre-eclampsia.
WHO recommendations
Zinc supplementation for pregnant women is only recommended in the context of rigorous research.
WHO documents
GRC-approved guidelines
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WHO recommendations on antenatal care for a positive pregnancy experience
Publication date: 2016
Evidence
Systematic reviews used to develop the guidelines
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Zinc supplementation for improving pregnancy and infant outcome
Ota E, Mori R, Middleton P, Tobe-Gai R, Mahomed K, Miyazaki C, Bhutta ZA.
Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews. 2015; Issue 2. Art. No.: CD000230. - Summary of this review
Related systematic reviews
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Effect of Zinc Supplementation on Pregnancy and Infant Outcomes: A Systematic Review
Chaffee BW, King JC.
Paediatric and Perinatal Epidemiology. 2012; 26(s1):118–137. -
A systematic review of effect of prenatal zinc supplementation on birthweight: meta-analysis of 17 randomized controlled trials
Gebreselassie SG, Gashe FE.
Journal of Health, Population and Nutrition. 2011; 29(2).