Title: Bed rest and other determinants of bone loss during pregnancy.

Authors: Promislow, Joanne H E; Hertz-Picciotto, Irva; Schramm, Margaret; Watt-Morse, Margaret; Anderson, John J B

Published In Am J Obstet Gynecol, (2004 Oct)

Abstract: OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to evaluate patterns of bone loss during pregnancy and potential influences. STUDY DESIGN: This was a prospective study of 181 women receiving prenatal care at Magee-Womens Hospital or its auxiliary clinics in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, between 1992 and 1995. Bone mineral density was measured at approximately 16 and 36 weeks' gestation. RESULTS: Trabecular, but not cortical, bone loss occurred during pregnancy. Mean ultra-distal bone mineral density loss was 1.9% (95% CI 1.2-2.5) during the 20-week period. Women prescribed bed rest had an adjusted mean loss of 4.6% compared with 1.5% for women not prescribed bed rest ( P = .001) and 6-fold higher odds ( P = .001) of bone loss > or =5% during the 20-week period. Nulliparity, calcium intake < 2 000 mg/day, low weight gain, and maternal age < 21 or >30 years were more modestly associated with greater bone loss. CONCLUSION: Substantial trabecular bone loss may occur during pregnancy, particularly in women prescribed bed rest. Study of postpartum bone recovery in such women is needed.

PubMed ID: 15507924

MeSH Terms: No MeSH terms associated with this publication