The Claim
Antenatal multiple micronutrient supplements have no different effect on neonatal mortality compared to iron-folic acid supplements, regardless of the iron dose administered.
What the research says
Supports is higher
Support is ahead, but a single strong opposing study can change this.
These are independent scores, not a percentage. Higher-grade studies count more, so a single strong opposing study can outweigh several weaker ones.
Taking multiple micronutrient supplements during pregnancy does not result in a different rate of newborn deaths compared to taking only iron and folic acid supplements, no matter how much iron is included.
See the scientific wording
The conclusion that antenatal multiple micronutrient supplements do not increase neonatal mortality compared to iron-folic acid supplements, regardless of iron dose, is supported by corrected data from multiple trials, including reclassification of the West 2014 and Kaestel 2005 trials, which were previously misclassified in WHO analyses.
When pregnant women get enough vitamins and minerals, their placenta works properly to deliver oxygen and nutrients to the baby, keeping the baby’s metabolism stable and preventing conditions that could lead to death after birth.
What the research says
1 studyWhen scientists looked at the real data again and fixed past mistakes, they found that giving pregnant women extra vitamins and minerals (not just iron and folic acid) didn’t lead to more newborn deaths — even when the iron dose was different.
Score breakdown, mechanism chain, raw evidence, ideal studies needed & 1 supporting studies
Not medical advice. For informational purposes only. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making health decisions.