All interventionsThe central role of zinc in cell division, protein synthesis and growth means that an adequate supply of zinc is especially important for pregnant women. During pregnancy, zinc and other micronutrient deficiencies are common due to increased nutrient requirements of the mother and the developing fetus. These deficiencies can negatively impact pregnancy outcomes including the health of the mother and newborn infant.
The available evidence suggests that zinc supplementation during pregnancy may help to reduce preterm births in low-income settings, but does not prevent other suboptimal pregnancy outcomes including low-birth-weight or pre-eclampsia.