Nutritional Support in Obstetrics and Gynecology

3 areas of in which nutritional support for the patient has profound implications - pregnancy lactation and sex hormone therapy - are reviewed with emphasis on altered nutrient needs. Nutrition as an influence on the course and outcome of pregnancy is reviewed with regard to energy requirements weight gain and relationship to birth weight. Nutritional requirements for protein iron folate calcium and vitamin D vitamin B(6) and sodium are presented and clinical implications discussed. During lactation protein and calcium content appear to be relatively independent of maternal nutritional status. Other nutrients such as amino acid fatty acid and water soluble vitamin composition vary with maternal intake. Nutritional support during hormonal therapy includes an increased need for vitamin B(6) and folate. Other nutrients which may require greater intake in those taking oral contraceptives are also reviewed.