Preconceptional and prenatal multivitamin-mineral supplement use in the 1988 National Maternal and Infant Health Survey

Am J Public Health. 1996 Feb;86(2):240-2. doi: 10.2105/ajph.86.2.240.

Abstract

This paper examines the prevalence of multivitamin-mineral supplement use before and during pregnancy, as well as predictors of nonuse, in 9953 women who delivered live infants in the 1988 National Maternal and Infant Health Survey. Ninety-seven percent of the women were advised to take multivitamin-mineral supplements in prenatal care. Sixty-seven percent of Black mothers took supplements during pregnancy, as compared with 84% of White mothers. Multivariate analysis revealed that Black mothers; mothers who are less educated, younger, unmarried, and non-smokers; and mothers who participate in Women, Infants, and Children programs are at elevated risk for nonuse. These data help identify groups in need of supplementation guidance.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Educational Status
  • Ethnicity
  • Female
  • Health Surveys
  • Humans
  • Minerals / therapeutic use*
  • Preconception Care*
  • Pregnancy
  • Prenatal Care*
  • Vitamins / therapeutic use*

Substances

  • Minerals
  • Vitamins