Vitamin D and intrauterine growth restriction: a cross-sectional study

Vitamin D plays a critical role in maintaining bone health, regulating calcium homeostasis, and modulating immune responses. During pregnancy, it supports fetal bone mineralization and proper placental function. Deficiency in vitamin D can impair calcium absorption, disrupt placental function, and lead to adverse outcomes like intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR). Despite abundant sunlight, vitamin D deficiency is highly prevalent in countries like Indonesia. This study evaluates the relationship between maternal vitamin D levels and IUGR risk while considering additional factors like placental function and calcium metabolism. In this cross-sectional study, 60 patients, 30 with IUGR and 30 without, were included. Vitamin D levels were measured using the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, and statistical analysis compared the IUGR and non-IUGR groups. Baseline data [age, body mass index (BMI), placental inflammation, preeclampsia status] were analyzed using Chi-square and Mann-Whitney tests. Statistical significance was set at p<0.05, using IBM SPSS 24 (IL, USA). A significant association between maternal factors and IUGR was found. Higher BMI (≥25 kg/m²) and placental inflammation were more prevalent in the IUGR group. Vitamin D deficiency was strongly linked to IUGR, with 90% of IUGR cases showing deficient levels. The IUGR group had significantly lower vitamin D levels (13.84 ng/mL versus 25.93 ng/mL), with a strong inverse correlation (r=-0.86, p=0.00). This study shows a strong link between maternal vitamin D deficiency and increased IUGR risk, emphasizing its role in placental function and fetal development.