Knowledge, awareness and recommendation on micronutrition during pregnancy-a survey of healthcare providers
Abstract
BACKGROUND: The market for dietary supplements targeting women of reproductive age and pregnant individuals is rapidly expanding. Despite accumulating evidence regarding the benefits of specific micronutrients during pregnancy, there is considerable variability in international and national guidelines, compounded by knowledge gaps among healthcare professionals.
OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to assess the knowledge, attitudes, and counseling practices of midwives and physicians in Germany concerning micronutrient supplementation during pregnancy.
METHODS: A cross-sectional online survey was conducted among healthcare professionals in Frankfurt and surrounding regions in April to May 2024. A newly developed 24-item questionnaire was utilized to gather demographic data, assess counseling practices related to micronutrients and knowledge concerning of the roles of folic acid, vitamin D, vitamin B12, and omega-3 fatty acids in fetal development. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and Fisher's exact test (p < 0.05).
RESULTS: Of the 360 individuals who accessed the survey, 107 completed it (33 midwives, 72 physicians). While 96.8% recommended supplementation during pregnancy, only 48.1% rated their knowledge as moderate. Folic acid was most frequently recommended supplement (78.7%), followed by omega-3 fatty acids (68%) and vitamin B12 (notably for vegan diets, 96.1%). Gaps in knowledge were identified, particularly regarding the biochemical forms of folate (34.5%…
How strong is the evidence?
Evidence Hub reads this as a cross-sectional, done in people. Its evidence level is 4 of 5 (Low · observational). Observational designs can show an association but not prove cause. Reported size: 360 participants or records.
Read the paper
Related studies
- eggNOG 5.0: a hierarchical, functionally and phylogenetically annotated orthology resource based on 5090 organisms and 2502 viruses
- Online Survival Analysis Software to Assess the Prognostic Value of Biomarkers Using Transcriptomic Data in Non-Small-Cell Lung Cancer
- OptiType: precision HLA typing from next-generation sequencing data
- Nicotinic Cholinergic System and COVID-19: In Silico Identification of an Interaction between SARS-CoV-2 and Nicotinic Receptors with Potential Therapeutic Targeting Implications
- Saccharomyces cerevisiae cells have three Omega class glutathione S-transferases acting as 1-Cys thiol transferases
- Hemolysis at low blood flow rates: in-vitro and in-silico evaluation of a centrifugal blood pump
Go deeper in Evidence Hub
Evidence Hub adds a study data sheet (design, sample size, evidence level, key numbers), an AI summary and a chat grounded in the paper's text.