Guideline overview
WHO guidance addresses calcium supplementation in populations with low dietary calcium intake to reduce pre-eclampsia risk. Dietary intake and obstetric assessment remain relevant.
- Research focus
- Dietary calcium and risk management in pregnancy
- Study design
- Guideline perspective
- Publication / contributor
- World Health Organization
Key recommendations
| Measure | Result | Context |
|---|---|---|
| Population | Low dietary calcium intake | WHO recommendation |
| Outcome | Pre-eclampsia risk | Obstetric risk management |
Practical considerations
WHO recommends daily supplementation with 1.5–2.0 g of oral elemental calcium for pregnant women in populations with low dietary calcium intake to reduce preeclampsia risk. The recommendation focuses on pregnancy nutrition in a low-intake setting.
Dietary assessment identifies everyday calcium sources, while antenatal follow-up evaluates additional needs in relation to pregnancy health. Both inform calcium nutrition management.
Application notes
The cited recommendation page was updated on 9 August 2023 and is consistent with WHO recommendations on antenatal care for a positive pregnancy experience (2016).
It applies to populations with low dietary calcium intake. Individual supplementation arrangements depend on local clinical practice, diet and antenatal assessment.
References
WHO. Calcium supplementation during pregnancy to reduce the risk of pre-eclampsia. Updated 2023-08-09.
