Vitamin D deficiency is associated with an increase in births by caesarean section
A research shows that women who have vitamin D deficiency are more likely to give birth by cesarean section. During the study pregnant women were examined in the course of 72 hours. None of these women had given birth by cesarean birth before, and 17% gave birth by cesarean during the study. Researchers found that 36% of mothers were deficient in vitamin D, and there were another 23% where the deficit was very high. The results showed that women with low levels of vitamin D are four times more likely to give birth by cesarean than women with higher levels.
Vitamin D deficiency
Ann Miarud, assistant professor at The Boston University and coauthor of the study, says that the theory behind these results indicate a connection between vitamin D deficiency and muscle weakness. It is possible for uterus, which is made of muscles, to lose some strength if a woman has significantly lower levels of vitamin D. If these muscles are weak due to a deficit of vitamin D, this can prevent natural childbirth.
But Miarud added, “This is just a theory at this stage. The reasons are not yet established.”
Daniel Hirsch, assistant professor of pediatrics added that more researches should be made and it is too early to say with certainty whether the data proves that pregnant women should receive vitamin D supplements.
However, the study reveals that a very large percentage of women have a great deficiency of vitamin D, probably because women generally are more likely to have such a deficit. The risk is higher for those with darker skin or those living in northern climates.
Having in mind the connection between giving birth by cesarean with respiratory problems and a longer hospitalization of the newborn, the natural prevention of cesarean section is very important.
The intake of vitamin D during pregnancy use to be very helpful.
It is not difficult to increase the natural intake of vitamin D. Human body actually can produce it from sunlight by itself, so standing a few minutes (not hours) a day in the sun is very healthy. Eggs and tuna are also among the best natural sources of this vitamin, although the consuming of tuna should be limited during pregnancy because of the risk of high mercury content. You can also drink milk with vitamin D.
If you are pregnant and you think you might be at risk of deficiency of vitamin D, it is better to discuss this with your doctor. A blood test can easily show whether such deficiency exists. If it does, several simple changes in your lifestyle can ensure optimal health for you and your baby.