Effects of maternal micronutrient supplementation on fetal loss and infant mortality: a cluster-randomized trial in Nepal

This study examined the effect of daily maternal micronutrient supplementation (MMS) on fetal loss and infant mortality in rural Nepal.  Pregnant women received either vitamin A only, or in addition to Vitamin A, folic acid only,  iron-folic acid (IFA), IFA, and zinc or multiple micronutrients. Results showed that MMS failed to reduce overall fetal loss or early infant mortality. Among preterm infants, folic acid alone or with iron reduced mortality in the first 3 months of life. Multiple micronutrients may increase mortality risk among term infants, but this effect needs further evaluation.