What neonatal outcome is associated with severe low vitamin D levels during pregnancy?

Severe low vitamin D levels during pregnancy can lead to congenital rickets in neonates. Vitamin D plays a crucial role in calcium and phosphate metabolism, which are vital for bone mineralization. When a pregnant individual has inadequate levels of vitamin D, the developing fetus may not receive sufficient vitamin D, resulting in impaired skeletal mineralization and ultimately leading to rickets. Congenital rickets can manifest as soft and weak bones in the newborn, making them more susceptible to bone deformities and fractures.

Understanding the physiological importance of vitamin D is key. Inadequate vitamin D can disrupt normal calcium absorption, leading to a deficiency in the mineralization of developing bones, which is critical during fetal development. The connection between maternal vitamin D levels and neonatal skeletal health underscores the importance of adequate vitamin D intake during pregnancy to prevent conditions like congenital rickets in infants.