Side effects of vitamin c in pregnancy
Pro Research Analysisby 
Searched over 200M research papers
Side Effects of Vitamin C in Pregnancy
Introduction to Vitamin C Supplementation in Pregnancy
Vitamin C, a crucial antioxidant, is often recommended during pregnancy to support maternal health and fetal development. However, its supplementation is not without potential side effects. This article synthesizes research findings on the adverse effects of vitamin C supplementation during pregnancy.
Increased Risk of Preterm Birth
One of the significant concerns associated with vitamin C supplementation during pregnancy is the increased risk of preterm birth. Studies have shown that women who took vitamin C, either alone or in combination with other supplements, had a higher likelihood of giving birth preterm compared to those who did not take the supplement 12. This finding suggests that while vitamin C has potential benefits, it may also pose risks that need careful consideration.
Abdominal Pain and Gastrointestinal Issues
Another reported side effect of vitamin C supplementation is an increase in self-reported abdominal pain. In a study involving 1,877 participants, those who took vitamin C were more likely to experience abdominal discomfort compared to those who did not . This side effect highlights the need for monitoring and possibly adjusting the dosage of vitamin C during pregnancy to avoid gastrointestinal issues.
Oxidative Stress and Lipid Peroxidation
High doses of vitamin C, especially when combined with iron supplements, can lead to increased oxidative stress and lipid peroxidation. A study found that pregnant women who took both iron and vitamin C had higher levels of plasma thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS), indicating increased lipid peroxidation . This oxidative stress can be harmful to both the mother and the fetus, suggesting that supplementation should be carefully managed.
No Significant Reduction in Pre-eclampsia
While vitamin C is thought to reduce oxidative stress and potentially lower the risk of pre-eclampsia, studies have not consistently supported this benefit. Research conducted in various settings, including a randomized controlled trial in Uganda, found no significant difference in the incidence of pre-eclampsia between women who took vitamin C and those who did not 45. This lack of clear benefit, combined with potential risks, questions the routine use of vitamin C for this purpose.
Impact on Respiratory Outcomes in Offspring
Interestingly, vitamin C supplementation has shown some positive effects on respiratory outcomes in the offspring of pregnant smokers. Studies have demonstrated that vitamin C can improve airway function and reduce the occurrence of wheeze in infants up to five years of age 910. These findings suggest that while there are risks, there may also be specific scenarios where vitamin C supplementation could be beneficial.
Conclusion
Vitamin C supplementation during pregnancy presents a complex picture. While it has potential benefits, such as improving respiratory outcomes in the offspring of smokers, it also carries risks like increased preterm birth, abdominal pain, and oxidative stress. Therefore, it is crucial for healthcare providers to weigh these risks and benefits carefully and consider individual patient needs when recommending vitamin C supplementation during pregnancy. Further research is needed to fully understand the implications and to develop guidelines that maximize benefits while minimizing risks.
Sources and full results
Most relevant research papers on this topic