Associations between Pregnancy-Related Symptoms, Serum 25(OH)D, and Physical Quality of Life in Pregnant Women

Abstract

Vitamin D deficiency has been associated with pregnancy-related symptoms including fatigue, poor sleep quality, and musculoskeletal pain. Pregnant Black and Hispanic women are more likely to have vitamin D deficiency compared with pregnant non-Hispanic White women. Data are limited on the association of vitamin D deficiency with quality of life (QOL) among pregnant women. This study examined the association of serum 25(OH)D and pregnancy-related symptoms with QOL among pregnant predominantly minority women. Using a cross-sectional design, 119 pregnant Black and Hispanic women completed surveys and had blood drawn for serum 25(OH)D levels between 24–32 weeks gestation. Hierarchical regression analysis indicated that total pregnancy-related symptoms and serum 25(OH)D level were significant predictors of QOL, while controlling for covariates. Higher total pregnancy-related symptoms and lower serum 25(OH)D predicted poorer physical QOL. Screening for pregnancy-related symptoms and vitamin D levels among childbearing women might be important nursing interventions to improve physical QOL.