Evaluation of maternal Vitamin D and B12 levels in the first trimester of pregnancy

Background: Vitamin D and Vitamin B12 are critical for maternal health and fetal development. While Vitamin D regulates skeletal mineralization and immune function, Vitamin B12 is essential for DNA synthesis and neural growth. In India, despite geographic and dietary factors, there is a high prevalence of micronutrient deficiencies during pregnancy. This study aimed to assess the status of these two vitamins during the first trimester of pregnancy in a North Indian tertiary care setting. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted at Santosh Medical College and Hospital, Ghaziabad, involving 55 pregnant women (ages 20–40) in their first trimester. Serum levels of Vitamin D and B12 were measured and categorized based on standard deficiency thresholds. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and Chi-square tests to identify associations with demographic factors. Results: The prevalence of Vitamin D deficiency ($<20$ ng/mL) was 34.54%, and insufficiency (21–29 ng/mL) was 38.18%, meaning 72.72% of the cohort had sub-optimal Vitamin D levels. In contrast, Vitamin B12 levels were predominantly sufficient in 92.72% of participants. No statistically significant correlation was found between Vitamin D and B12 status ($ P > 0.05$), nor between micronutrient status and age, although the 20–25 age group showed the highest rate of Vitamin D deficiency (53.85%). Conclusion: There is a significant burden of Vitamin D deficiency among pregnant women in North India during the first trimester, whereas Vitamin B12 levels remained largely sufficient in this specific cohort. These findings emphasize the need for routine early-pregnancy screening and targeted Vitamin D supplementation to mitigate potential adverse maternal and fetal outcomes.