Abstract
SummaryThe investigation and follow‐up of 36 women, in whom folate deficiency during pregnancy was associated with intestinal malabsorption and jejunal mucosal changes, suggested that a pre‐existent chronic enteropathy had been unmasked or exacerbated, that this was usually due to gluten sensitivity, and that impaired absorption of folic acid may be the usual cause of megaloblastic pregnancy anaemia even in temperate countries.As in tropical sprue, the folate requirements of pregnancy probably initiate a vicious circle of progressive folate depletion and increasing malabsorption. In addition to the immediate maternal and fetal risks, persistent malabsorption may lead to chronic ill health and acute relapses, especially during further pregnancies. Ileal involvement may lead to vitamin B12 depletion with neurological damage, and there is the eventual risk of intestinal malignancy. Continued supervision is therefore indicated, and gluten‐free diets may be advisable in most cases.
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Schedule a callMore From: BJOG: An International Journal of Obstetrics & Gynaecology
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