ABSTRACT
Although vitamin D deficiency in pregnancy is common, osteoporotic fractures in pregnancy and the postpartum period are rare. Fragility fractures may occur due to the demands on the maternal skeleton caused by increasing calcium requirement of the third-trimester fetus and suckling infant, superimposed on prepregnancy risks for skeletal compromise. Treatment involves symptomatic and nutritional support, along with resolution of any correctable underlying risk factors, with osteoporosis medications reserved for select postpartum cases. Maternal vitamin D requirements increase during pregnancy and lactation due to the role of vitamin D in meeting the calcium demand of the fetus and infant. Vitamin D also likely plays a key role in immune regulation in mother and child.
