Exploring the Association Between Maternal Vitamin D Status, Pregnancy Symptomatology, and Quality of Life: A Cross-Sectional Study in Mosul, Iraq

Background: Vitamin D deficiency is a growing public health concern, particularly among pregnant women, due to its potential implications for both maternal and fetal health. Although the physiological importance of vitamin D in bone metabolism is well known, its role in modulating pregnancy symptoms and quality of life (QoL) requires further exploration.Objective: This study aimed to examine the prevalence of vitamin D deficiency among pregnant women in Mosul, Iraq, and assess its association with common pregnancy-related symptoms and overall QoL. It also examined demographic and lifestyle factors that influence maternal vitamin D levels and their impact on pregnancy outcomes.Methods: A descriptive correlational study was conducted across four teaching hospitals in Mosul from October 2024 to January 2025. A total of 120 pregnant women participated. Data collection tools included serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D measurements, the Pregnancy Symptom Inventory, and the SF-36 QoL index. Demographic and obstetric data were obtained through structured interviews. SPSS Version 28 was used for data analysis, including descriptive statistics, cross-tabulations, and multivariate regression.Results: Vitamin D deficiency (<20 ng/mL) was identified in 57.5% of participants. Lower vitamin D levels were significantly associated with increased fatigue, nausea, musculoskeletal pain, and lower QoL scores (p < 0.05). Age, BMI, and sun exposure emerged as key predictors of vitamin D status. Women with sufficient vitamin D levels reported better physical functioning, emotional well-being, and social engagement.Conclusion: Vitamin D deficiency is prevalent among pregnant women in Mosul and is associated with heightened symptomatology and reduced QoL. These findings support the integration of routine vitamin D screening and targeted supplementation into prenatal care programs. Further longitudinal studies are recommended to establish causality and evaluate long-term maternal-fetal outcomes