Abstract
Objective To assess the evidence available on the use of vitamin C supplementation greater
than recommended dietary intake to reduce preterm birth rates.
Study Design Systematic review of randomized controlled trials using vitamin C alone or with one
other supplement other than iron. Trials must report preterm birth rates but can have
other primary outcomes. Preterm birth is defined as birth at less than 37 weeks' gestational
age for this review. Review focused on studies with populations representative of
Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development countries.
Results Inadequate level of evidence on the use of vitamin C alone to prevent preterm birth
rates in low-risk populations based on one study. Three studies provided convincing
evidence of no benefit in low-risk groups of use of vitamins C and E combined. Three
studies provided adequate evidence of no benefit in high-risk groups of use of vitamins
C and E combined.
Conclusion The available evidence supports no benefit gained from using vitamin C to prevent
preterm birth. Evidence does not support limiting use of vitamin C supplementation
for other indications.
Keywords
vitamin C - ascorbic acid - preterm birth - prevention
