Vitamin C Supplementation in Pregnancy – Does it Decrease Rates of Pre-term Birth: A Systematic Review

Abstract

Objective:

To assess the evidence available on the use of vitamin C supplementation greater than recommended dietary intake to reduce pre-term birth rates.

Study Design:

Systematic review of randomized controlled trials using vitamin C alone or with one other supplement other than iron. Trials must report pre-term birth rates but can have other primary outcomes. Pre-term birth is defined as birth at less than 37 weeks gestational age for this review. Review focused on studies with populations representative of Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development countries.

Results:

Inadequate level of evidence on the use of vitamin C alone to prevent preterm birth rates in low risk populations based on one study. Three studies provided convincing evidence of no benefit in low risk groups to use vitamin C and E combined. Three studies provided adequate evidence of no benefit in high risk groups to use vitamin C and E combined.

Conclusion:

The available evidence supports no benefit gained from using vitamin C to prevent preterm birth. Evidence does not support limiting use of vitamin C supplementation for other indications.