Scolaris Content Display Scolaris Content Display

Funnel plot of comparison: 1 Daily iron alone versus no intervention/placebo, outcome: 1.7 Maternal Hb concentration at term (g/L) (ALL).
Figures and Tables -
Figure 1

Funnel plot of comparison: 1 Daily iron alone versus no intervention/placebo, outcome: 1.7 Maternal Hb concentration at term (g/L) (ALL).

Funnel plot of comparison: 1 Daily iron alone versus no intervention/placebo, outcome: 1.9 Anaemia at term (Hb less than 110 g/L).
Figures and Tables -
Figure 2

Funnel plot of comparison: 1 Daily iron alone versus no intervention/placebo, outcome: 1.9 Anaemia at term (Hb less than 110 g/L).

Comparison 1 Daily iron alone versus no intervention/placebo, Outcome 1 Low birthweight (less than 2500 g) (ALL).
Figures and Tables -
Analysis 1.1

Comparison 1 Daily iron alone versus no intervention/placebo, Outcome 1 Low birthweight (less than 2500 g) (ALL).

Comparison 1 Daily iron alone versus no intervention/placebo, Outcome 2 Low birthweight (less than 2500 g) (BY SUBGROUPS).
Figures and Tables -
Analysis 1.2

Comparison 1 Daily iron alone versus no intervention/placebo, Outcome 2 Low birthweight (less than 2500 g) (BY SUBGROUPS).

Comparison 1 Daily iron alone versus no intervention/placebo, Outcome 3 Birthweight (g) (ALL).
Figures and Tables -
Analysis 1.3

Comparison 1 Daily iron alone versus no intervention/placebo, Outcome 3 Birthweight (g) (ALL).

Comparison 1 Daily iron alone versus no intervention/placebo, Outcome 4 Birthweight (g) (BY SUBGROUPS).
Figures and Tables -
Analysis 1.4

Comparison 1 Daily iron alone versus no intervention/placebo, Outcome 4 Birthweight (g) (BY SUBGROUPS).

Comparison 1 Daily iron alone versus no intervention/placebo, Outcome 5 Premature delivery (less than 37 weeks of gestation) (ALL).
Figures and Tables -
Analysis 1.5

Comparison 1 Daily iron alone versus no intervention/placebo, Outcome 5 Premature delivery (less than 37 weeks of gestation) (ALL).

Comparison 1 Daily iron alone versus no intervention/placebo, Outcome 6 Premature delivery (less 37 weeks of gestation) (BY SUBGROUPS).
Figures and Tables -
Analysis 1.6

Comparison 1 Daily iron alone versus no intervention/placebo, Outcome 6 Premature delivery (less 37 weeks of gestation) (BY SUBGROUPS).

Comparison 1 Daily iron alone versus no intervention/placebo, Outcome 7 Maternal Hb concentration at term (g/L) (ALL).
Figures and Tables -
Analysis 1.7

Comparison 1 Daily iron alone versus no intervention/placebo, Outcome 7 Maternal Hb concentration at term (g/L) (ALL).

Comparison 1 Daily iron alone versus no intervention/placebo, Outcome 8 Maternal Hb concentration at term (g/L) (BY SUBGROUPS).
Figures and Tables -
Analysis 1.8

Comparison 1 Daily iron alone versus no intervention/placebo, Outcome 8 Maternal Hb concentration at term (g/L) (BY SUBGROUPS).

Comparison 1 Daily iron alone versus no intervention/placebo, Outcome 9 Anaemia at term (Hb less than 110 g/L) (ALL).
Figures and Tables -
Analysis 1.9

Comparison 1 Daily iron alone versus no intervention/placebo, Outcome 9 Anaemia at term (Hb less than 110 g/L) (ALL).

Comparison 1 Daily iron alone versus no intervention/placebo, Outcome 10 Haemoconcentration at term (Hb more than 130 g/L) (ALL).
Figures and Tables -
Analysis 1.10

Comparison 1 Daily iron alone versus no intervention/placebo, Outcome 10 Haemoconcentration at term (Hb more than 130 g/L) (ALL).

Comparison 1 Daily iron alone versus no intervention/placebo, Outcome 11 Haemoconcentration at term (Hb more than 130 g/L) (BY SUBGROUPS).
Figures and Tables -
Analysis 1.11

Comparison 1 Daily iron alone versus no intervention/placebo, Outcome 11 Haemoconcentration at term (Hb more than 130 g/L) (BY SUBGROUPS).

Comparison 1 Daily iron alone versus no intervention/placebo, Outcome 12 Haemoconcentration during second or third trimester (ALL).
Figures and Tables -
Analysis 1.12

Comparison 1 Daily iron alone versus no intervention/placebo, Outcome 12 Haemoconcentration during second or third trimester (ALL).

Comparison 1 Daily iron alone versus no intervention/placebo, Outcome 13 Haemoconcentration during second or third trimester (BY SUBGROUPS).
Figures and Tables -
Analysis 1.13

Comparison 1 Daily iron alone versus no intervention/placebo, Outcome 13 Haemoconcentration during second or third trimester (BY SUBGROUPS).

Comparison 1 Daily iron alone versus no intervention/placebo, Outcome 14 Iron deficiency at term (as defined by two or more indicators) (ALL).
Figures and Tables -
Analysis 1.14

Comparison 1 Daily iron alone versus no intervention/placebo, Outcome 14 Iron deficiency at term (as defined by two or more indicators) (ALL).

Comparison 1 Daily iron alone versus no intervention/placebo, Outcome 15 Iron deficiency at term (as defined by two or more indicators) (BY SUBGROUPS).
Figures and Tables -
Analysis 1.15

Comparison 1 Daily iron alone versus no intervention/placebo, Outcome 15 Iron deficiency at term (as defined by two or more indicators) (BY SUBGROUPS).

Comparison 1 Daily iron alone versus no intervention/placebo, Outcome 16 Iron deficiency anaemia at term (ALL).
Figures and Tables -
Analysis 1.16

Comparison 1 Daily iron alone versus no intervention/placebo, Outcome 16 Iron deficiency anaemia at term (ALL).

Comparison 1 Daily iron alone versus no intervention/placebo, Outcome 17 Iron deficiency anaemia at term (BY SUBGROUPS).
Figures and Tables -
Analysis 1.17

Comparison 1 Daily iron alone versus no intervention/placebo, Outcome 17 Iron deficiency anaemia at term (BY SUBGROUPS).

Comparison 1 Daily iron alone versus no intervention/placebo, Outcome 18 Side‐effects (Any) (ALL).
Figures and Tables -
Analysis 1.18

Comparison 1 Daily iron alone versus no intervention/placebo, Outcome 18 Side‐effects (Any) (ALL).

Comparison 1 Daily iron alone versus no intervention/placebo, Outcome 19 Side‐effects (Any) (BY SUBGROUPS).
Figures and Tables -
Analysis 1.19

Comparison 1 Daily iron alone versus no intervention/placebo, Outcome 19 Side‐effects (Any) (BY SUBGROUPS).

Comparison 1 Daily iron alone versus no intervention/placebo, Outcome 20 Very low birthweight (less than 1500 g) (ALL).
Figures and Tables -
Analysis 1.20

Comparison 1 Daily iron alone versus no intervention/placebo, Outcome 20 Very low birthweight (less than 1500 g) (ALL).

Comparison 1 Daily iron alone versus no intervention/placebo, Outcome 21 Perinatal death (ALL).
Figures and Tables -
Analysis 1.21

Comparison 1 Daily iron alone versus no intervention/placebo, Outcome 21 Perinatal death (ALL).

Comparison 1 Daily iron alone versus no intervention/placebo, Outcome 24 Infant Hb concentration at 3 months (g/L) (ALL).
Figures and Tables -
Analysis 1.24

Comparison 1 Daily iron alone versus no intervention/placebo, Outcome 24 Infant Hb concentration at 3 months (g/L) (ALL).

Comparison 1 Daily iron alone versus no intervention/placebo, Outcome 25 Infant serum ferritin concentration at 3 months (ug/L) (ALL).
Figures and Tables -
Analysis 1.25

Comparison 1 Daily iron alone versus no intervention/placebo, Outcome 25 Infant serum ferritin concentration at 3 months (ug/L) (ALL).

Comparison 1 Daily iron alone versus no intervention/placebo, Outcome 26 Infant Hb concentration at 6 months (g/L) (ALL).
Figures and Tables -
Analysis 1.26

Comparison 1 Daily iron alone versus no intervention/placebo, Outcome 26 Infant Hb concentration at 6 months (g/L) (ALL).

Comparison 1 Daily iron alone versus no intervention/placebo, Outcome 27 Infant serum ferritin concentration at 6 months (ug/L) (ALL).
Figures and Tables -
Analysis 1.27

Comparison 1 Daily iron alone versus no intervention/placebo, Outcome 27 Infant serum ferritin concentration at 6 months (ug/L) (ALL).

Comparison 1 Daily iron alone versus no intervention/placebo, Outcome 29 Admission to special care unit (ALL).
Figures and Tables -
Analysis 1.29

Comparison 1 Daily iron alone versus no intervention/placebo, Outcome 29 Admission to special care unit (ALL).

Comparison 1 Daily iron alone versus no intervention/placebo, Outcome 30 Very premature delivery (less than 34 weeks' gestation) (ALL).
Figures and Tables -
Analysis 1.30

Comparison 1 Daily iron alone versus no intervention/placebo, Outcome 30 Very premature delivery (less than 34 weeks' gestation) (ALL).

Comparison 1 Daily iron alone versus no intervention/placebo, Outcome 31 Severe anaemia at term (Hb less than 70 g/L) (ALL).
Figures and Tables -
Analysis 1.31

Comparison 1 Daily iron alone versus no intervention/placebo, Outcome 31 Severe anaemia at term (Hb less than 70 g/L) (ALL).

Comparison 1 Daily iron alone versus no intervention/placebo, Outcome 32 Moderate anaemia at term (Hb more than 70 g/L and less than 90 g/L) (ALL).
Figures and Tables -
Analysis 1.32

Comparison 1 Daily iron alone versus no intervention/placebo, Outcome 32 Moderate anaemia at term (Hb more than 70 g/L and less than 90 g/L) (ALL).

Comparison 1 Daily iron alone versus no intervention/placebo, Outcome 33 Severe anaemia at any time during second and third trimester (ALL).
Figures and Tables -
Analysis 1.33

Comparison 1 Daily iron alone versus no intervention/placebo, Outcome 33 Severe anaemia at any time during second and third trimester (ALL).

Comparison 1 Daily iron alone versus no intervention/placebo, Outcome 34 Moderate anaemia at any time during second or third trimester (ALL).
Figures and Tables -
Analysis 1.34

Comparison 1 Daily iron alone versus no intervention/placebo, Outcome 34 Moderate anaemia at any time during second or third trimester (ALL).

Comparison 1 Daily iron alone versus no intervention/placebo, Outcome 35 Infection during pregnancy (including urinary tract infections) (ALL).
Figures and Tables -
Analysis 1.35

Comparison 1 Daily iron alone versus no intervention/placebo, Outcome 35 Infection during pregnancy (including urinary tract infections) (ALL).

Comparison 1 Daily iron alone versus no intervention/placebo, Outcome 36 Puerperal infection (ALL).
Figures and Tables -
Analysis 1.36

Comparison 1 Daily iron alone versus no intervention/placebo, Outcome 36 Puerperal infection (ALL).

Comparison 1 Daily iron alone versus no intervention/placebo, Outcome 37 Antepartum haemorraghe (ALL).
Figures and Tables -
Analysis 1.37

Comparison 1 Daily iron alone versus no intervention/placebo, Outcome 37 Antepartum haemorraghe (ALL).

Comparison 1 Daily iron alone versus no intervention/placebo, Outcome 38 Postpartum haemorraghe (ALL).
Figures and Tables -
Analysis 1.38

Comparison 1 Daily iron alone versus no intervention/placebo, Outcome 38 Postpartum haemorraghe (ALL).

Comparison 1 Daily iron alone versus no intervention/placebo, Outcome 39 Transfusion provided (ALL).
Figures and Tables -
Analysis 1.39

Comparison 1 Daily iron alone versus no intervention/placebo, Outcome 39 Transfusion provided (ALL).

Comparison 1 Daily iron alone versus no intervention/placebo, Outcome 40 Haemoglobin concentration within one month postpartum (ALL).
Figures and Tables -
Analysis 1.40

Comparison 1 Daily iron alone versus no intervention/placebo, Outcome 40 Haemoglobin concentration within one month postpartum (ALL).

Comparison 1 Daily iron alone versus no intervention/placebo, Outcome 41 Severe anaemia at postpartum (Hb less than 80 g/L) (ALL).
Figures and Tables -
Analysis 1.41

Comparison 1 Daily iron alone versus no intervention/placebo, Outcome 41 Severe anaemia at postpartum (Hb less than 80 g/L) (ALL).

Comparison 1 Daily iron alone versus no intervention/placebo, Outcome 42 Moderate anaemia at postpartum (Hb more than 80 g/L and less than 100 g/L) (ALL).
Figures and Tables -
Analysis 1.42

Comparison 1 Daily iron alone versus no intervention/placebo, Outcome 42 Moderate anaemia at postpartum (Hb more than 80 g/L and less than 100 g/L) (ALL).

Comparison 1 Daily iron alone versus no intervention/placebo, Outcome 43 Diarrhoea (ALL).
Figures and Tables -
Analysis 1.43

Comparison 1 Daily iron alone versus no intervention/placebo, Outcome 43 Diarrhoea (ALL).

Comparison 1 Daily iron alone versus no intervention/placebo, Outcome 44 Constipation (ALL).
Figures and Tables -
Analysis 1.44

Comparison 1 Daily iron alone versus no intervention/placebo, Outcome 44 Constipation (ALL).

Comparison 1 Daily iron alone versus no intervention/placebo, Outcome 45 Nausea (ALL).
Figures and Tables -
Analysis 1.45

Comparison 1 Daily iron alone versus no intervention/placebo, Outcome 45 Nausea (ALL).

Comparison 1 Daily iron alone versus no intervention/placebo, Outcome 46 Heartburn (ALL).
Figures and Tables -
Analysis 1.46

Comparison 1 Daily iron alone versus no intervention/placebo, Outcome 46 Heartburn (ALL).

Comparison 1 Daily iron alone versus no intervention/placebo, Outcome 47 Vomiting (ALL).
Figures and Tables -
Analysis 1.47

Comparison 1 Daily iron alone versus no intervention/placebo, Outcome 47 Vomiting (ALL).

Comparison 1 Daily iron alone versus no intervention/placebo, Outcome 48 Maternal death (death while pregnant or within 42 days of termination of pregnancy) (ALL).
Figures and Tables -
Analysis 1.48

Comparison 1 Daily iron alone versus no intervention/placebo, Outcome 48 Maternal death (death while pregnant or within 42 days of termination of pregnancy) (ALL).

Comparison 1 Daily iron alone versus no intervention/placebo, Outcome 49 Maternal wellbeing/satisfaction (ALL).
Figures and Tables -
Analysis 1.49

Comparison 1 Daily iron alone versus no intervention/placebo, Outcome 49 Maternal wellbeing/satisfaction (ALL).

Comparison 1 Daily iron alone versus no intervention/placebo, Outcome 50 Placental abruption (ALL).
Figures and Tables -
Analysis 1.50

Comparison 1 Daily iron alone versus no intervention/placebo, Outcome 50 Placental abruption (ALL).

Comparison 1 Daily iron alone versus no intervention/placebo, Outcome 51 Premature rupture of membranes (ALL).
Figures and Tables -
Analysis 1.51

Comparison 1 Daily iron alone versus no intervention/placebo, Outcome 51 Premature rupture of membranes (ALL).

Comparison 1 Daily iron alone versus no intervention/placebo, Outcome 52 Pre‐eclampsia (ALL).
Figures and Tables -
Analysis 1.52

Comparison 1 Daily iron alone versus no intervention/placebo, Outcome 52 Pre‐eclampsia (ALL).

Comparison 1 Daily iron alone versus no intervention/placebo, Outcome 91 Small for gestational age (less than 10th percentile weight at birth for gestational age) (not pre‐specified).
Figures and Tables -
Analysis 1.91

Comparison 1 Daily iron alone versus no intervention/placebo, Outcome 91 Small for gestational age (less than 10th percentile weight at birth for gestational age) (not pre‐specified).

Comparison 1 Daily iron alone versus no intervention/placebo, Outcome 93 Cesarean delivery (not pre‐specified).
Figures and Tables -
Analysis 1.93

Comparison 1 Daily iron alone versus no intervention/placebo, Outcome 93 Cesarean delivery (not pre‐specified).

Comparison 1 Daily iron alone versus no intervention/placebo, Outcome 94 Birth length in cm (not pre‐specified).
Figures and Tables -
Analysis 1.94

Comparison 1 Daily iron alone versus no intervention/placebo, Outcome 94 Birth length in cm (not pre‐specified).

Comparison 1 Daily iron alone versus no intervention/placebo, Outcome 95 Forceps or vacuum delivery (not pre‐specified).
Figures and Tables -
Analysis 1.95

Comparison 1 Daily iron alone versus no intervention/placebo, Outcome 95 Forceps or vacuum delivery (not pre‐specified).

Comparison 1 Daily iron alone versus no intervention/placebo, Outcome 96 Breastfeeding at least 4 months (not pre‐specified).
Figures and Tables -
Analysis 1.96

Comparison 1 Daily iron alone versus no intervention/placebo, Outcome 96 Breastfeeding at least 4 months (not pre‐specified).

Comparison 1 Daily iron alone versus no intervention/placebo, Outcome 97 Haemoglobin concentration at 4‐8 weeks' postpartum (g/L) (not pre‐specified).
Figures and Tables -
Analysis 1.97

Comparison 1 Daily iron alone versus no intervention/placebo, Outcome 97 Haemoglobin concentration at 4‐8 weeks' postpartum (g/L) (not pre‐specified).

Comparison 1 Daily iron alone versus no intervention/placebo, Outcome 98 Apgar score < 7 at 5 minutes (not pre‐specified).
Figures and Tables -
Analysis 1.98

Comparison 1 Daily iron alone versus no intervention/placebo, Outcome 98 Apgar score < 7 at 5 minutes (not pre‐specified).

Comparison 1 Daily iron alone versus no intervention/placebo, Outcome 99 Apgar Score at 5 min (not pre‐specified).
Figures and Tables -
Analysis 1.99

Comparison 1 Daily iron alone versus no intervention/placebo, Outcome 99 Apgar Score at 5 min (not pre‐specified).

Comparison 2 Intermittent iron alone versus daily iron alone, Outcome 3 Birthweight (ALL).
Figures and Tables -
Analysis 2.3

Comparison 2 Intermittent iron alone versus daily iron alone, Outcome 3 Birthweight (ALL).

Comparison 2 Intermittent iron alone versus daily iron alone, Outcome 5 Premature delivery (less than 37 weeks of gestation) (ALL).
Figures and Tables -
Analysis 2.5

Comparison 2 Intermittent iron alone versus daily iron alone, Outcome 5 Premature delivery (less than 37 weeks of gestation) (ALL).

Comparison 2 Intermittent iron alone versus daily iron alone, Outcome 12 Haemoconcentration during second or third trimester (Hb more than 130 g/L) (ALL).
Figures and Tables -
Analysis 2.12

Comparison 2 Intermittent iron alone versus daily iron alone, Outcome 12 Haemoconcentration during second or third trimester (Hb more than 130 g/L) (ALL).

Comparison 2 Intermittent iron alone versus daily iron alone, Outcome 33 Severe anaemia at any time during second and third trimester (Hb less than 70 g/L) (ALL).
Figures and Tables -
Analysis 2.33

Comparison 2 Intermittent iron alone versus daily iron alone, Outcome 33 Severe anaemia at any time during second and third trimester (Hb less than 70 g/L) (ALL).

Comparison 2 Intermittent iron alone versus daily iron alone, Outcome 34 Moderate anaemia at any time during second or third trimester (ALL).
Figures and Tables -
Analysis 2.34

Comparison 2 Intermittent iron alone versus daily iron alone, Outcome 34 Moderate anaemia at any time during second or third trimester (ALL).

Comparison 3 Daily iron‐folic acid versus no intervention/placebo, Outcome 1 Low birthweight (less than 2500 g) (ALL).
Figures and Tables -
Analysis 3.1

Comparison 3 Daily iron‐folic acid versus no intervention/placebo, Outcome 1 Low birthweight (less than 2500 g) (ALL).

Comparison 3 Daily iron‐folic acid versus no intervention/placebo, Outcome 2 Low birthweight (less than 2500 g) (BY SUBGROUPS).
Figures and Tables -
Analysis 3.2

Comparison 3 Daily iron‐folic acid versus no intervention/placebo, Outcome 2 Low birthweight (less than 2500 g) (BY SUBGROUPS).

Comparison 3 Daily iron‐folic acid versus no intervention/placebo, Outcome 3 Birthweight (ALL).
Figures and Tables -
Analysis 3.3

Comparison 3 Daily iron‐folic acid versus no intervention/placebo, Outcome 3 Birthweight (ALL).

Comparison 3 Daily iron‐folic acid versus no intervention/placebo, Outcome 4 Birthweight (BY SUBGROUPS).
Figures and Tables -
Analysis 3.4

Comparison 3 Daily iron‐folic acid versus no intervention/placebo, Outcome 4 Birthweight (BY SUBGROUPS).

Comparison 3 Daily iron‐folic acid versus no intervention/placebo, Outcome 5 Premature delivery (less than 37 weeks of gestation) (ALL).
Figures and Tables -
Analysis 3.5

Comparison 3 Daily iron‐folic acid versus no intervention/placebo, Outcome 5 Premature delivery (less than 37 weeks of gestation) (ALL).

Comparison 3 Daily iron‐folic acid versus no intervention/placebo, Outcome 6 Premature delivery (less than 37 weeks of gestation) (BY SUB GROUPS).
Figures and Tables -
Analysis 3.6

Comparison 3 Daily iron‐folic acid versus no intervention/placebo, Outcome 6 Premature delivery (less than 37 weeks of gestation) (BY SUB GROUPS).

Comparison 3 Daily iron‐folic acid versus no intervention/placebo, Outcome 7 Haemoglobin concentration at term (ALL).
Figures and Tables -
Analysis 3.7

Comparison 3 Daily iron‐folic acid versus no intervention/placebo, Outcome 7 Haemoglobin concentration at term (ALL).

Comparison 3 Daily iron‐folic acid versus no intervention/placebo, Outcome 8 Haemoglobin concentration at term (BY SUBGROUPS).
Figures and Tables -
Analysis 3.8

Comparison 3 Daily iron‐folic acid versus no intervention/placebo, Outcome 8 Haemoglobin concentration at term (BY SUBGROUPS).

Comparison 3 Daily iron‐folic acid versus no intervention/placebo, Outcome 9 Anaemia at term (Hb less than 110 g/L) (ALL).
Figures and Tables -
Analysis 3.9

Comparison 3 Daily iron‐folic acid versus no intervention/placebo, Outcome 9 Anaemia at term (Hb less than 110 g/L) (ALL).

Comparison 3 Daily iron‐folic acid versus no intervention/placebo, Outcome 10 Haemoconcentration at term (Hb more than 130 g/L) (ALL).
Figures and Tables -
Analysis 3.10

Comparison 3 Daily iron‐folic acid versus no intervention/placebo, Outcome 10 Haemoconcentration at term (Hb more than 130 g/L) (ALL).

Comparison 3 Daily iron‐folic acid versus no intervention/placebo, Outcome 11 Haemoconcentration at term (Hb more than 130 g/L) (BY SUBGROUPS).
Figures and Tables -
Analysis 3.11

Comparison 3 Daily iron‐folic acid versus no intervention/placebo, Outcome 11 Haemoconcentration at term (Hb more than 130 g/L) (BY SUBGROUPS).

Comparison 3 Daily iron‐folic acid versus no intervention/placebo, Outcome 12 Haemoconcentration during second or third trimester (ALL).
Figures and Tables -
Analysis 3.12

Comparison 3 Daily iron‐folic acid versus no intervention/placebo, Outcome 12 Haemoconcentration during second or third trimester (ALL).

Comparison 3 Daily iron‐folic acid versus no intervention/placebo, Outcome 13 Haemoconcentration during second or third trimester (BY SUBGROUPS).
Figures and Tables -
Analysis 3.13

Comparison 3 Daily iron‐folic acid versus no intervention/placebo, Outcome 13 Haemoconcentration during second or third trimester (BY SUBGROUPS).

Comparison 3 Daily iron‐folic acid versus no intervention/placebo, Outcome 14 Iron deficiency at term (as defined by two or more indicators) (ALL).
Figures and Tables -
Analysis 3.14

Comparison 3 Daily iron‐folic acid versus no intervention/placebo, Outcome 14 Iron deficiency at term (as defined by two or more indicators) (ALL).

Comparison 3 Daily iron‐folic acid versus no intervention/placebo, Outcome 15 Iron deficiency at term (as defined by two or more indicators) (BY SUBGROUPS).
Figures and Tables -
Analysis 3.15

Comparison 3 Daily iron‐folic acid versus no intervention/placebo, Outcome 15 Iron deficiency at term (as defined by two or more indicators) (BY SUBGROUPS).

Comparison 3 Daily iron‐folic acid versus no intervention/placebo, Outcome 16 Iron deficiency anaemia at term (ALL).
Figures and Tables -
Analysis 3.16

Comparison 3 Daily iron‐folic acid versus no intervention/placebo, Outcome 16 Iron deficiency anaemia at term (ALL).

Comparison 3 Daily iron‐folic acid versus no intervention/placebo, Outcome 17 Iron deficiency anaemia at term (BY SUBGROUPS).
Figures and Tables -
Analysis 3.17

Comparison 3 Daily iron‐folic acid versus no intervention/placebo, Outcome 17 Iron deficiency anaemia at term (BY SUBGROUPS).

Comparison 3 Daily iron‐folic acid versus no intervention/placebo, Outcome 18 Side effects (Any) (ALL).
Figures and Tables -
Analysis 3.18

Comparison 3 Daily iron‐folic acid versus no intervention/placebo, Outcome 18 Side effects (Any) (ALL).

Comparison 3 Daily iron‐folic acid versus no intervention/placebo, Outcome 20 Very low birthweight (less than 1500 g) (ALL).
Figures and Tables -
Analysis 3.20

Comparison 3 Daily iron‐folic acid versus no intervention/placebo, Outcome 20 Very low birthweight (less than 1500 g) (ALL).

Comparison 3 Daily iron‐folic acid versus no intervention/placebo, Outcome 21 Perinatal death (ALL).
Figures and Tables -
Analysis 3.21

Comparison 3 Daily iron‐folic acid versus no intervention/placebo, Outcome 21 Perinatal death (ALL).

Comparison 3 Daily iron‐folic acid versus no intervention/placebo, Outcome 29 Admission to special care unit (ALL).
Figures and Tables -
Analysis 3.29

Comparison 3 Daily iron‐folic acid versus no intervention/placebo, Outcome 29 Admission to special care unit (ALL).

Comparison 3 Daily iron‐folic acid versus no intervention/placebo, Outcome 30 Very premature delivery (less than 34 weeks' gestation) (ALL).
Figures and Tables -
Analysis 3.30

Comparison 3 Daily iron‐folic acid versus no intervention/placebo, Outcome 30 Very premature delivery (less than 34 weeks' gestation) (ALL).

Comparison 3 Daily iron‐folic acid versus no intervention/placebo, Outcome 31 Severe anaemia at term (Hb less than 70 g/L) (ALL).
Figures and Tables -
Analysis 3.31

Comparison 3 Daily iron‐folic acid versus no intervention/placebo, Outcome 31 Severe anaemia at term (Hb less than 70 g/L) (ALL).

Comparison 3 Daily iron‐folic acid versus no intervention/placebo, Outcome 32 Moderate anaemia at term (Hb more than 70g/L and less than 90 g/L) (ALL).
Figures and Tables -
Analysis 3.32

Comparison 3 Daily iron‐folic acid versus no intervention/placebo, Outcome 32 Moderate anaemia at term (Hb more than 70g/L and less than 90 g/L) (ALL).

Comparison 3 Daily iron‐folic acid versus no intervention/placebo, Outcome 33 Severe anaemia at any time during second and third trimester (Hb less than 70 g/L) (ALL).
Figures and Tables -
Analysis 3.33

Comparison 3 Daily iron‐folic acid versus no intervention/placebo, Outcome 33 Severe anaemia at any time during second and third trimester (Hb less than 70 g/L) (ALL).

Comparison 3 Daily iron‐folic acid versus no intervention/placebo, Outcome 34 Moderate anaemia at any time during second or third trimester (ALL).
Figures and Tables -
Analysis 3.34

Comparison 3 Daily iron‐folic acid versus no intervention/placebo, Outcome 34 Moderate anaemia at any time during second or third trimester (ALL).

Comparison 3 Daily iron‐folic acid versus no intervention/placebo, Outcome 35 Infection during pregnancy (including urinary tract infections) (ALL).
Figures and Tables -
Analysis 3.35

Comparison 3 Daily iron‐folic acid versus no intervention/placebo, Outcome 35 Infection during pregnancy (including urinary tract infections) (ALL).

Comparison 3 Daily iron‐folic acid versus no intervention/placebo, Outcome 36 Puerperal infection (ALL).
Figures and Tables -
Analysis 3.36

Comparison 3 Daily iron‐folic acid versus no intervention/placebo, Outcome 36 Puerperal infection (ALL).

Comparison 3 Daily iron‐folic acid versus no intervention/placebo, Outcome 37 Antepartum haemorrhage (ALL).
Figures and Tables -
Analysis 3.37

Comparison 3 Daily iron‐folic acid versus no intervention/placebo, Outcome 37 Antepartum haemorrhage (ALL).

Comparison 3 Daily iron‐folic acid versus no intervention/placebo, Outcome 38 Postpartum haemorrhage (ALL).
Figures and Tables -
Analysis 3.38

Comparison 3 Daily iron‐folic acid versus no intervention/placebo, Outcome 38 Postpartum haemorrhage (ALL).

Comparison 3 Daily iron‐folic acid versus no intervention/placebo, Outcome 40 Haemoglobin concentration within one month postpartum (ALL).
Figures and Tables -
Analysis 3.40

Comparison 3 Daily iron‐folic acid versus no intervention/placebo, Outcome 40 Haemoglobin concentration within one month postpartum (ALL).

Comparison 3 Daily iron‐folic acid versus no intervention/placebo, Outcome 41 Severe anaemia at postpartum (Hb less than 80 g/L) (ALL).
Figures and Tables -
Analysis 3.41

Comparison 3 Daily iron‐folic acid versus no intervention/placebo, Outcome 41 Severe anaemia at postpartum (Hb less than 80 g/L) (ALL).

Comparison 3 Daily iron‐folic acid versus no intervention/placebo, Outcome 42 Moderate anaemia at postpartum (Hb more than 80 g/L and less than 100 g/L) (ALL).
Figures and Tables -
Analysis 3.42

Comparison 3 Daily iron‐folic acid versus no intervention/placebo, Outcome 42 Moderate anaemia at postpartum (Hb more than 80 g/L and less than 100 g/L) (ALL).

Comparison 3 Daily iron‐folic acid versus no intervention/placebo, Outcome 48 Maternal death (death while pregnant or within 42 days of termination of pregnancy) (ALL).
Figures and Tables -
Analysis 3.48

Comparison 3 Daily iron‐folic acid versus no intervention/placebo, Outcome 48 Maternal death (death while pregnant or within 42 days of termination of pregnancy) (ALL).

Comparison 3 Daily iron‐folic acid versus no intervention/placebo, Outcome 50 Placental abruption (ALL).
Figures and Tables -
Analysis 3.50

Comparison 3 Daily iron‐folic acid versus no intervention/placebo, Outcome 50 Placental abruption (ALL).

Comparison 3 Daily iron‐folic acid versus no intervention/placebo, Outcome 52 Pre‐eclampsia (ALL).
Figures and Tables -
Analysis 3.52

Comparison 3 Daily iron‐folic acid versus no intervention/placebo, Outcome 52 Pre‐eclampsia (ALL).

Comparison 3 Daily iron‐folic acid versus no intervention/placebo, Outcome 91 Small for gestational age (less than 10th percentile weight at birth for gestational age) (not pre‐specified).
Figures and Tables -
Analysis 3.91

Comparison 3 Daily iron‐folic acid versus no intervention/placebo, Outcome 91 Small for gestational age (less than 10th percentile weight at birth for gestational age) (not pre‐specified).

Comparison 3 Daily iron‐folic acid versus no intervention/placebo, Outcome 92 Oedema during pregnancy (not pre‐specified).
Figures and Tables -
Analysis 3.92

Comparison 3 Daily iron‐folic acid versus no intervention/placebo, Outcome 92 Oedema during pregnancy (not pre‐specified).

Comparison 3 Daily iron‐folic acid versus no intervention/placebo, Outcome 93 Caesarean delivery (not pre‐specified).
Figures and Tables -
Analysis 3.93

Comparison 3 Daily iron‐folic acid versus no intervention/placebo, Outcome 93 Caesarean delivery (not pre‐specified).

Comparison 3 Daily iron‐folic acid versus no intervention/placebo, Outcome 94 Birth length in cm (not pre‐specified).
Figures and Tables -
Analysis 3.94

Comparison 3 Daily iron‐folic acid versus no intervention/placebo, Outcome 94 Birth length in cm (not pre‐specified).

Comparison 3 Daily iron‐folic acid versus no intervention/placebo, Outcome 97 Haemoglobin concentration at 4‐8 weeks postpartum (not prespecified).
Figures and Tables -
Analysis 3.97

Comparison 3 Daily iron‐folic acid versus no intervention/placebo, Outcome 97 Haemoglobin concentration at 4‐8 weeks postpartum (not prespecified).

Comparison 4 Intermittent iron‐folic acid versus daily iron‐folic acid, Outcome 1 Low birthweight (less than 2500 g) (ALL).
Figures and Tables -
Analysis 4.1

Comparison 4 Intermittent iron‐folic acid versus daily iron‐folic acid, Outcome 1 Low birthweight (less than 2500 g) (ALL).

Comparison 4 Intermittent iron‐folic acid versus daily iron‐folic acid, Outcome 2 Low birthweight (less than 2500 g) (BY SUBGROUPS).
Figures and Tables -
Analysis 4.2

Comparison 4 Intermittent iron‐folic acid versus daily iron‐folic acid, Outcome 2 Low birthweight (less than 2500 g) (BY SUBGROUPS).

Comparison 4 Intermittent iron‐folic acid versus daily iron‐folic acid, Outcome 3 Birthweight (ALL).
Figures and Tables -
Analysis 4.3

Comparison 4 Intermittent iron‐folic acid versus daily iron‐folic acid, Outcome 3 Birthweight (ALL).

Comparison 4 Intermittent iron‐folic acid versus daily iron‐folic acid, Outcome 4 Birthweight (BY SUBGROUPS).
Figures and Tables -
Analysis 4.4

Comparison 4 Intermittent iron‐folic acid versus daily iron‐folic acid, Outcome 4 Birthweight (BY SUBGROUPS).

Comparison 4 Intermittent iron‐folic acid versus daily iron‐folic acid, Outcome 5 Premature delivery (less than 37 weeks of gestation) (ALL).
Figures and Tables -
Analysis 4.5

Comparison 4 Intermittent iron‐folic acid versus daily iron‐folic acid, Outcome 5 Premature delivery (less than 37 weeks of gestation) (ALL).

Comparison 4 Intermittent iron‐folic acid versus daily iron‐folic acid, Outcome 7 Haemoglobin concentration at term (ALL).
Figures and Tables -
Analysis 4.7

Comparison 4 Intermittent iron‐folic acid versus daily iron‐folic acid, Outcome 7 Haemoglobin concentration at term (ALL).

Comparison 4 Intermittent iron‐folic acid versus daily iron‐folic acid, Outcome 8 Haemoglobin concentration at term (BY SUBGROUPS).
Figures and Tables -
Analysis 4.8

Comparison 4 Intermittent iron‐folic acid versus daily iron‐folic acid, Outcome 8 Haemoglobin concentration at term (BY SUBGROUPS).

Comparison 4 Intermittent iron‐folic acid versus daily iron‐folic acid, Outcome 9 Anaemia at term (Hb < 110 g/L) (ALL).
Figures and Tables -
Analysis 4.9

Comparison 4 Intermittent iron‐folic acid versus daily iron‐folic acid, Outcome 9 Anaemia at term (Hb < 110 g/L) (ALL).

Comparison 4 Intermittent iron‐folic acid versus daily iron‐folic acid, Outcome 10 Haemoconcentration at term (Hb more than 130 g/L) (ALL).
Figures and Tables -
Analysis 4.10

Comparison 4 Intermittent iron‐folic acid versus daily iron‐folic acid, Outcome 10 Haemoconcentration at term (Hb more than 130 g/L) (ALL).

Comparison 4 Intermittent iron‐folic acid versus daily iron‐folic acid, Outcome 11 Haemoconcentration at term (Hb more than 130 g/L) (BY SUBGROUPS).
Figures and Tables -
Analysis 4.11

Comparison 4 Intermittent iron‐folic acid versus daily iron‐folic acid, Outcome 11 Haemoconcentration at term (Hb more than 130 g/L) (BY SUBGROUPS).

Comparison 4 Intermittent iron‐folic acid versus daily iron‐folic acid, Outcome 12 Haemoconcentration during second or third trimester (Hb more than 130 g/L) (ALL).
Figures and Tables -
Analysis 4.12

Comparison 4 Intermittent iron‐folic acid versus daily iron‐folic acid, Outcome 12 Haemoconcentration during second or third trimester (Hb more than 130 g/L) (ALL).

Comparison 4 Intermittent iron‐folic acid versus daily iron‐folic acid, Outcome 13 Haemoconcentration during second or third trimester (Hb more than 130 g/L) (BY SUBGROUPS).
Figures and Tables -
Analysis 4.13

Comparison 4 Intermittent iron‐folic acid versus daily iron‐folic acid, Outcome 13 Haemoconcentration during second or third trimester (Hb more than 130 g/L) (BY SUBGROUPS).

Comparison 4 Intermittent iron‐folic acid versus daily iron‐folic acid, Outcome 16 Iron deficiency anaemia at term (based on two or more indicators) (ALL).
Figures and Tables -
Analysis 4.16

Comparison 4 Intermittent iron‐folic acid versus daily iron‐folic acid, Outcome 16 Iron deficiency anaemia at term (based on two or more indicators) (ALL).

Comparison 4 Intermittent iron‐folic acid versus daily iron‐folic acid, Outcome 18 Side effects (any) (ALL).
Figures and Tables -
Analysis 4.18

Comparison 4 Intermittent iron‐folic acid versus daily iron‐folic acid, Outcome 18 Side effects (any) (ALL).

Comparison 4 Intermittent iron‐folic acid versus daily iron‐folic acid, Outcome 19 Side effects (any) (BY SUBGROUPS).
Figures and Tables -
Analysis 4.19

Comparison 4 Intermittent iron‐folic acid versus daily iron‐folic acid, Outcome 19 Side effects (any) (BY SUBGROUPS).

Comparison 4 Intermittent iron‐folic acid versus daily iron‐folic acid, Outcome 20 Very low birthweight (less than 1500 g) (ALL).
Figures and Tables -
Analysis 4.20

Comparison 4 Intermittent iron‐folic acid versus daily iron‐folic acid, Outcome 20 Very low birthweight (less than 1500 g) (ALL).

Comparison 4 Intermittent iron‐folic acid versus daily iron‐folic acid, Outcome 21 Perinatal death (ALL).
Figures and Tables -
Analysis 4.21

Comparison 4 Intermittent iron‐folic acid versus daily iron‐folic acid, Outcome 21 Perinatal death (ALL).

Comparison 4 Intermittent iron‐folic acid versus daily iron‐folic acid, Outcome 27 Infant ferritin concentration at 6 months (ug/L) (ALL).
Figures and Tables -
Analysis 4.27

Comparison 4 Intermittent iron‐folic acid versus daily iron‐folic acid, Outcome 27 Infant ferritin concentration at 6 months (ug/L) (ALL).

Comparison 4 Intermittent iron‐folic acid versus daily iron‐folic acid, Outcome 30 Very premature delivery (less than 34 weeks of gestation) (ALL).
Figures and Tables -
Analysis 4.30

Comparison 4 Intermittent iron‐folic acid versus daily iron‐folic acid, Outcome 30 Very premature delivery (less than 34 weeks of gestation) (ALL).

Comparison 4 Intermittent iron‐folic acid versus daily iron‐folic acid, Outcome 31 Severe anaemia at term (Hb less than 70 g/L) (ALL).
Figures and Tables -
Analysis 4.31

Comparison 4 Intermittent iron‐folic acid versus daily iron‐folic acid, Outcome 31 Severe anaemia at term (Hb less than 70 g/L) (ALL).

Comparison 4 Intermittent iron‐folic acid versus daily iron‐folic acid, Outcome 32 Moderate anaemia at term (Hb more than 70g/L and less than 90 g/L) (ALL).
Figures and Tables -
Analysis 4.32

Comparison 4 Intermittent iron‐folic acid versus daily iron‐folic acid, Outcome 32 Moderate anaemia at term (Hb more than 70g/L and less than 90 g/L) (ALL).

Comparison 4 Intermittent iron‐folic acid versus daily iron‐folic acid, Outcome 33 Severe anaemia at any time during second and third trimester (Hb less than 70 g/L) (ALL).
Figures and Tables -
Analysis 4.33

Comparison 4 Intermittent iron‐folic acid versus daily iron‐folic acid, Outcome 33 Severe anaemia at any time during second and third trimester (Hb less than 70 g/L) (ALL).

Comparison 4 Intermittent iron‐folic acid versus daily iron‐folic acid, Outcome 34 Moderate anaemia at any time during second or third trimester (ALL).
Figures and Tables -
Analysis 4.34

Comparison 4 Intermittent iron‐folic acid versus daily iron‐folic acid, Outcome 34 Moderate anaemia at any time during second or third trimester (ALL).

Comparison 4 Intermittent iron‐folic acid versus daily iron‐folic acid, Outcome 37 Antepartum haemorraghe (ALL).
Figures and Tables -
Analysis 4.37

Comparison 4 Intermittent iron‐folic acid versus daily iron‐folic acid, Outcome 37 Antepartum haemorraghe (ALL).

Comparison 4 Intermittent iron‐folic acid versus daily iron‐folic acid, Outcome 41 Severe anaemia at postpartum (Hb less than 80 g/L) (ALL).
Figures and Tables -
Analysis 4.41

Comparison 4 Intermittent iron‐folic acid versus daily iron‐folic acid, Outcome 41 Severe anaemia at postpartum (Hb less than 80 g/L) (ALL).

Comparison 4 Intermittent iron‐folic acid versus daily iron‐folic acid, Outcome 42 Moderate anaemia at postpartum (Hb more than 80 g/L and less than 100 g/L) (ALL).
Figures and Tables -
Analysis 4.42

Comparison 4 Intermittent iron‐folic acid versus daily iron‐folic acid, Outcome 42 Moderate anaemia at postpartum (Hb more than 80 g/L and less than 100 g/L) (ALL).

Comparison 4 Intermittent iron‐folic acid versus daily iron‐folic acid, Outcome 43 Diarrhoea (ALL).
Figures and Tables -
Analysis 4.43

Comparison 4 Intermittent iron‐folic acid versus daily iron‐folic acid, Outcome 43 Diarrhoea (ALL).

Comparison 4 Intermittent iron‐folic acid versus daily iron‐folic acid, Outcome 44 Constipation (ALL).
Figures and Tables -
Analysis 4.44

Comparison 4 Intermittent iron‐folic acid versus daily iron‐folic acid, Outcome 44 Constipation (ALL).

Comparison 4 Intermittent iron‐folic acid versus daily iron‐folic acid, Outcome 45 Nausea (ALL).
Figures and Tables -
Analysis 4.45

Comparison 4 Intermittent iron‐folic acid versus daily iron‐folic acid, Outcome 45 Nausea (ALL).

Comparison 4 Intermittent iron‐folic acid versus daily iron‐folic acid, Outcome 46 Heartburn (ALL).
Figures and Tables -
Analysis 4.46

Comparison 4 Intermittent iron‐folic acid versus daily iron‐folic acid, Outcome 46 Heartburn (ALL).

Comparison 4 Intermittent iron‐folic acid versus daily iron‐folic acid, Outcome 47 Vomiting (ALL).
Figures and Tables -
Analysis 4.47

Comparison 4 Intermittent iron‐folic acid versus daily iron‐folic acid, Outcome 47 Vomiting (ALL).

Comparison 4 Intermittent iron‐folic acid versus daily iron‐folic acid, Outcome 50 Placental abruption (ALL).
Figures and Tables -
Analysis 4.50

Comparison 4 Intermittent iron‐folic acid versus daily iron‐folic acid, Outcome 50 Placental abruption (ALL).

Comparison 4 Intermittent iron‐folic acid versus daily iron‐folic acid, Outcome 51 Premature rupture of membranes (ALL).
Figures and Tables -
Analysis 4.51

Comparison 4 Intermittent iron‐folic acid versus daily iron‐folic acid, Outcome 51 Premature rupture of membranes (ALL).

Comparison 4 Intermittent iron‐folic acid versus daily iron‐folic acid, Outcome 68 Ln (serum ferritin concentration) 4‐8 wk postpartum (not pre‐specified).
Figures and Tables -
Analysis 4.68

Comparison 4 Intermittent iron‐folic acid versus daily iron‐folic acid, Outcome 68 Ln (serum ferritin concentration) 4‐8 wk postpartum (not pre‐specified).

Comparison 4 Intermittent iron‐folic acid versus daily iron‐folic acid, Outcome 70 Low serum ferritin concentration at postpartum (4‐8 wk) (not pre‐specified).
Figures and Tables -
Analysis 4.70

Comparison 4 Intermittent iron‐folic acid versus daily iron‐folic acid, Outcome 70 Low serum ferritin concentration at postpartum (4‐8 wk) (not pre‐specified).

Comparison 4 Intermittent iron‐folic acid versus daily iron‐folic acid, Outcome 71 High serum transferrin receptors at 6 weeks postpartum (not pre‐specified).
Figures and Tables -
Analysis 4.71

Comparison 4 Intermittent iron‐folic acid versus daily iron‐folic acid, Outcome 71 High serum transferrin receptors at 6 weeks postpartum (not pre‐specified).

Comparison 4 Intermittent iron‐folic acid versus daily iron‐folic acid, Outcome 93 Caesarean delivery (not pre‐specified).
Figures and Tables -
Analysis 4.93

Comparison 4 Intermittent iron‐folic acid versus daily iron‐folic acid, Outcome 93 Caesarean delivery (not pre‐specified).

Comparison 4 Intermittent iron‐folic acid versus daily iron‐folic acid, Outcome 97 Haemoglobin concentration at 4‐8 weeks postpartum (not pre‐specified).
Figures and Tables -
Analysis 4.97

Comparison 4 Intermittent iron‐folic acid versus daily iron‐folic acid, Outcome 97 Haemoglobin concentration at 4‐8 weeks postpartum (not pre‐specified).

Table 1. Methodological quality assessment of included trials

Trial

Randomisation

Allocation

Blinding

Completeness of data

Quality rating

Barton 1994

Adequate

Adequate

Participants and care provider blinded

Adequate. Less than 5% lost to follow up

HIGH

Batu 1976

Unclear method

Unclear

Unclear. Participants blinded. Care provider and outcome assessor not clear

Inadequate. 28% of women lost to follow up

Butler 1968

Adequate

Adequate

Inadequate. Participant and provider were blinded for treatment for groups 1 and 2.

Inadequate. More than 20% lost to follow up

Buytaert 1983

Adequate

Adequate

Inadequate. Open

Unclear

HIGH

Cantlie 1971

Unclear. Method not stated.

Unclear

Unclear

Unclear. Not reported

Chanarin 1971

Inadequate. Quasi randomised by sequence assignment

Inadequate

Participants and care provider blinded

Adequate. Less than 20% lost to follow up

Charoenlarp 1988

Adequate

Unclear

Unclear. Participants and outcome assessor blinded. Care provider unclear

Adequate

Chew 1996a

Adequate

Adequate by sealed envelopes

Inadequate. Participants, care provider and outcome assessor not blinded

Adequate. Less than 20% lost to follow up

Chew 1996b

Adequate

Adequate by sealed envelopes

Adequate. Participants and care provider not blinded. Outcome assessor blinded

Inadequate. More than 20% lost to follow up

Chisholm 1966

Unclear method

Adequate

Participants and care provider blinded

Adequate. Less than 20% lost to follow up

Christian 2003

Adequate. Cluster randomisation

Adequate. Coded assignment

Adequate. Participants, care providers and outcome assessors blinded

Inadequate. More than 20% lost to follow up

HIGH

Cogswell 2003

Adequate

Adequate

Adequate. Participants, care provider and outcome assessor blinded

Inadequate. More than 20% lost to follow up

HIGH

De Benaze 1989

Unclear method

Adequate

Adequate. Participants and care provider blinded

Adequate. Less than 20% lost to follow up

Ekstrom 2002

Adequate by cluster

Inadequate. Not used

Inadequate. Participants and care provider not blinded. Outcome assessor unclear

Inadequate. More than 20% lost to follow up

Eskeland 1997

Adequate

Adequate

Adequate. Participants, care provider and outcome assessor blinded

Inadequate. More than 20% lost to follow up

HIGH

Hankin 1963

Inadequate. Quasi randomised by alternate assignment by day of the week

Inadequate

Inadequate. Open

Adequate. Less than 5% excluded

Harvey 2007

Adequate

Adequate. Coded opaque bottles

Inadequate. Participants blinded. Care provider and outcome assessor not blinded

Adequate. No losses to follow up.

HIGH

Hemminki 1989

Adequate

Adequate. Sealed numbered envelopes.

Inadequate. Open to participants and care providers. Outcome assessor blind.

Adequate.

HIGH

Holly 1955

Unclear method

Unclear

Inadequate. Participants and care provider not blinded. Outcome assessor unclear

Unclear

Hood 1960

Unclear method

Unclear

Inadequate. Participants and care provider not blinded. Outcome assessor unclear

Adequate. Less than 20% lost to follow up

Kerr 1958

Adequate

Unclear

Inadequate. Participants blinded. Care provider not blinded. Outcome assessor unclear

Inadequate. More than 20% lost to follow up

Lee 2005

Adequate. Method unclear

Unclear

Unclear.

Adequate. Less than 20% lost to follow up

Liu 1996

Unclear method

Adequate by sealed envelopes

Inadequate. Participants and care provider not blinded. Outcome assessor blinded

Adequate. Less than 20% lost to follow up

Makrides 2003

Adequate

Adequate

Adequate. Participants and care provider blinded

Adequate. Less than 20% lost to follow up

HIGH

Meier 2003

Adequate. Stratified by age group

Unclear

Adequate. Participants and care provider blinded. Outcome assessor unclear

Inadequate. More than 20% lost to follow up

Menendez 1994

Unclear method

Inadequate

Inadequate. Participants and care provider not blinded. Outcome assessor blinded

Inadequate. More than 20% lost to follow up

Milman 1991

Unclear method

Unclear

Adequate. Participants and care provider blinded. Outcome assessor unclear

Adequate. Less than 20% lost to follow up

Mukhopadhyay 2004

Adequate. Block randomisation

Inadequate. Not used

Inadequate. Open to participants, and care providers. Outcome assessor unclear

Inadequate. More than 20% lost to follow up

Paintin 1966

Unclear method

Adequate by sequential numbers

Adequate. Participants and care provider blinded

Adequate. Less than 5% lost to follow up

Pita Martin 1999

Inadequate. Quasi randomised

Inadequate. Not used

Inadequate. Open

Inadequate. More than 20% lost to follow up

Preziosi 1997

Adequate

Adequate

Adequate. Participant and care provider blinded. Outcome assessor blinded

Unclear

HIGH

Pritchard 1958

Unclear method

Unclear

Inadequate. Open

Unclear

Puolakka 1980

Unclear method

Unclear

Inadequate. Open

Adequate. Less than 20% lost to follow up

Ridwan 1996

Adequate

Inadequate. Not used

Inadequate. Participants and care provider not blinded. Outcome assessor blinded

Inadequate. More than 20% lost to follow up

Robinson 1998

Quasi randomised by alternate numbers

Unclear

Inadequate. Participants and care provider not blinded

Inadequate. More than 20% lost to follow up

Romslo 1983

Unclear method

Unclear

Inadequate. Participants blinded. Care provider and outcome assessor not blinded

Adequate. Less than 20% lost to follow up

Siega‐Riz 2001

Adequate. Random number generator

Adequate

Adequate. Participants, care provider and outcome assessor blinded

Inadequate. More than 20% lost to follow up

HIGH

Svanberg 1975

Unclear method

Unclear

Adequate. Participants, care provider, and outcome assessor blinded

Adequate. Less than 20% lost to follow up

Taylor 1982

Unclear method

Unclear

Inadequate. Open

Adequate. less than 20% lost to follow up

Tura 1989

Adequate

Adequate

Inadequate. Open

Adequate. Less than 20% lost to follow up

HIGH

Van Eijk 1978

Unclear. Not stated

Inadequate. Not used

Inadequate.Open

Adequate. Less than 20% loss to follow up

Wallenburg 1983

Adequate

Adequate

Inadequate.Open

Adequate. Less than 20% lost to follow up

HIGH

Willoughby 1967

Unclear method

Unclear

Unclear

A. Adequate. Less than 20% lost to follow up

Wills 1947

Inadequate. Quasi randomised by alternate allocation

Inadequate. Not used

Adequate. Participants and care provider blinded. Outcome assessor blinded

Inadequate. More than 20% lost to follow up

Winichagoon 2003

Unclear method of cluster randomisation

Inadequate. Not used

Inadequate.Open

Inadequate. more than 20% lost to follow up

Young 2000

Adequate

Unclear

Inadequate. Participants and care provider not blinded. Outcome assessor unclear

Inadequate. More than 20% lost to follow up

Yu 1998

Inadequate. Quasi randomised

Inadequate

Inadequate.Open

Inadequate. More than 20% lost to follow up

Ziaei 2008

Adequate. Random numbers table

Adequate. Coded assignments

Adequate. Participants and care provider blinded. Outcome assessor unclear

Adequate. Less than 5% lost to follow up

HIGH

Ziaei 2007

Adequate. Table of random numbers

Adequate. Coded bottles

Adequate. participants and care providers blinded. Outcome assessor unclear

Adequate. Less than 5% lost to follow up.

HIGH

Figures and Tables -
Table 1. Methodological quality assessment of included trials
Comparison 1. Daily iron alone versus no intervention/placebo

Outcome or subgroup title

No. of studies

No. of participants

Statistical method

Effect size

1 Low birthweight (less than 2500 g) (ALL) Show forest plot

9

6275

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

0.79 [0.61, 1.03]

2 Low birthweight (less than 2500 g) (BY SUBGROUPS) Show forest plot

9

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

Subtotals only

2.1 Early gestational age (less than 20 weeks of gestation or pre‐pregnancy) at start of supplementation

7

5771

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

0.81 [0.61, 1.08]

2.2 Late gestational age (20 weeks or more of gestation) at start of supplementation

2

504

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

0.55 [0.22, 1.38]

2.5 Non‐anaemic at start of supplementation

6

4452

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

0.76 [0.46, 1.25]

2.6 Unspecified/mixed anaemic status at start of supplementation

3

1823

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

0.82 [0.71, 0.94]

2.7 Daily lower dose (60 mg elemental iron or less)

7

3247

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

0.79 [0.53, 1.18]

2.8 Daily higher dose (more than 60 mg elemental iron)

2

3028

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

0.75 [0.45, 1.26]

3 Birthweight (g) (ALL) Show forest plot

10

5956

Mean Difference (IV, Random, 95% CI)

36.05 [‐4.84, 76.95]

4 Birthweight (g) (BY SUBGROUPS) Show forest plot

11

Mean Difference (IV, Random, 95% CI)

Subtotals only

4.1 Early gestational age (less than 20 weeks of gestation or pre‐pregnancy) at start of supplementation

9

5822

Mean Difference (IV, Random, 95% CI)

30.89 [‐13.87, 75.65]

4.2 Late gestational age (20 weeks or more of gestation) at start of supplementation

2

251

Mean Difference (IV, Random, 95% CI)

39.72 [‐67.69, 147.12]

4.5 Non‐anaemic at start of supplementation

8

4496

Mean Difference (IV, Random, 95% CI)

29.32 [‐27.08, 85.71]

4.6 Unspecified/mixed anaemic status at start of supplementation

3

1577

Mean Difference (IV, Random, 95% CI)

52.33 [10.16, 94.51]

4.7 Daily low dose (60 mg elemental iron or less)

6

2804

Mean Difference (IV, Random, 95% CI)

37.22 [‐17.82, 92.27]

4.8 Daily higher dose (more than 60 mg elemental iron)

6

3382

Mean Difference (IV, Random, 95% CI)

17.99 [‐41.28, 77.26]

5 Premature delivery (less than 37 weeks of gestation) (ALL) Show forest plot

8

5730

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

0.85 [0.67, 1.09]

6 Premature delivery (less 37 weeks of gestation) (BY SUBGROUPS) Show forest plot

8

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

Subtotals only

6.1 Early gestational age (less than 20 weeks of gestation or pre‐pregnancy) at start of supplementation

6

2989

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

0.89 [0.66, 1.20]

6.2 Late gestational age (20 weeks or more of gestation) at start of supplementation

1

47

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

0.32 [0.01, 7.48]

6.5 Non‐anaemic at start of supplementation

6

1775

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

0.78 [0.54, 1.12]

6.6 Unspecified/mixed anaemic status at start of supplementation

1

1261

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

1.04 [0.85, 1.28]

6.7 Daily lower dose (60 mg elemental iron or less)

6

3023

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

0.89 [0.68, 1.18]

6.8 Daily higher dose (more than 60 mg elemental iron)

2

2707

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

0.71 [0.48, 1.06]

7 Maternal Hb concentration at term (g/L) (ALL) Show forest plot

17

2463

Mean Difference (IV, Random, 95% CI)

8.83 [6.55, 11.11]

8 Maternal Hb concentration at term (g/L) (BY SUBGROUPS) Show forest plot

17

Mean Difference (IV, Random, 95% CI)

Subtotals only

8.1 Early gestational age (less than 20 weeks of gestation or pre‐pregnancy) at start of supplementation

13

2306

Mean Difference (IV, Random, 95% CI)

8.14 [5.61, 10.67]

8.2 Late gestational age (20 weeks or more of gestation) at start of supplementation

3

130

Mean Difference (IV, Random, 95% CI)

10.24 [2.45, 18.04]

8.3 Unspecified/mixed gestational age at start of supplementation

1

27

Mean Difference (IV, Random, 95% CI)

14.0 [8.07, 19.93]

8.5 Non‐anaemic at start of supplementation

11

2002

Mean Difference (IV, Random, 95% CI)

7.77 [4.86, 10.69]

8.6 Unspecified/mixed anaemic status at start of supplementation

6

461

Mean Difference (IV, Random, 95% CI)

11.03 [7.51, 14.56]

8.7 Daily low dose (60 mg elemental iron or less)

8

1956

Mean Difference (IV, Random, 95% CI)

7.16 [4.14, 10.17]

8.8 Daily higher dose (more than 60 mg elemental iron)

9

507

Mean Difference (IV, Random, 95% CI)

10.94 [7.06, 14.82]

9 Anaemia at term (Hb less than 110 g/L) (ALL) Show forest plot

14

4390

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

0.27 [0.17, 0.42]

10 Haemoconcentration at term (Hb more than 130 g/L) (ALL) Show forest plot

10

4643

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

2.62 [1.21, 5.67]

11 Haemoconcentration at term (Hb more than 130 g/L) (BY SUBGROUPS) Show forest plot

10

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

Subtotals only

11.1 Early gestational age (less than 20 weeks of gestation or pre‐pregnancy) at start of supplementation

5

4173

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

1.99 [0.72, 5.45]

11.2 Late gestational age (20 weeks or more of gestation) at start of supplementation

3

198

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

3.94 [0.31, 50.47]

11.3 Unspecified/mixed gestational age at start of supplementation

2

272

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

4.67 [2.53, 8.60]

11.5 Non‐anaemic at start of supplementation

5

4011

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

1.73 [0.64, 4.66]

11.6 Unspecified/mixed anaemic status at start of supplementation

5

632

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

4.03 [1.39, 11.72]

11.7 Daily low dose (60 mg elemental iron or less)

4

1317

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

1.44 [0.54, 3.86]

11.8 Daily higher dose (more than 60 mg elemental iron)

6

3326

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

3.55 [1.89, 6.66]

12 Haemoconcentration during second or third trimester (ALL) Show forest plot

10

4841

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

2.27 [1.40, 3.70]

13 Haemoconcentration during second or third trimester (BY SUBGROUPS) Show forest plot

10

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

Subtotals only

13.1 Early gestational age (less than 20 weeks of gestation or pre‐pregnancy) at start of supplementation

7

4522

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

2.62 [1.49, 4.60]

13.2 Late gestational age (20 weeks or more of gestation) at start of supplementation

1

47

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

1.44 [0.72, 2.86]

13.3 Unspecified/mixed gestational age at start of supplementation

2

272

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

1.94 [0.30, 12.29]

13.5 Non‐anaemic at start of supplementation

6

4088

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

2.10 [1.13, 3.90]

13.6 Unspecified/mixed anaemic status at start of supplementation

4

753

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

2.67 [0.99, 7.17]

13.7 Daily low dose (60 mg elemental iron or less)

5

1655

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

2.35 [1.21, 4.57]

13.8 Daily higher dose (more than 60 mg elemental iron)

5

3186

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

2.14 [1.05, 4.37]

14 Iron deficiency at term (as defined by two or more indicators) (ALL) Show forest plot

6

1108

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

0.44 [0.27, 0.70]

15 Iron deficiency at term (as defined by two or more indicators) (BY SUBGROUPS) Show forest plot

6

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

Subtotals only

15.1 Early gestational age (less than 20 weeks of gestation or pre‐pregnancy) at start of supplementation

4

867

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

0.56 [0.35, 0.90]

15.2 Late gestational age (20 weeks or more of gestation) at start of supplementation

2

241

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

0.28 [0.17, 0.44]

15.5 Non‐anaemic at start of supplementation

4

944

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

0.60 [0.41, 0.90]

15.6 Unspecified/mixed anaemic status at start of supplementation

2

164

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

0.14 [0.07, 0.29]

15.7 Daily low dose (60 mg elemental iron or less)

4

944

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

0.60 [0.41, 0.90]

15.8 Daily higher dose (more than 60 mg elemental iron)

2

164

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

0.14 [0.07, 0.29]

16 Iron deficiency anaemia at term (ALL) Show forest plot

6

1667

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

0.33 [0.16, 0.69]

17 Iron deficiency anaemia at term (BY SUBGROUPS) Show forest plot

6

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

Subtotals only

17.1 Early gestational age (less than 20 weeks of gestation or pre‐pregnancy) at start of supplementation

5

1622

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

0.37 [0.18, 0.76]

17.2 Late gestational age (20 weeks or more of gestation) at start of supplementation

1

45

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

0.07 [0.00, 1.13]

17.5 Non‐anaemic at start of supplementation

5

1547

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

0.39 [0.20, 0.74]

17.6 Unspecified/mixed anaemic status at start of supplementation

1

120

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

0.04 [0.00, 0.72]

17.7 Daily low dose (60 mg elemental iron or less)

5

1547

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

0.39 [0.20, 0.74]

17.8 Daily higher dose (more than 60 mg elemental iron)

1

120

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

0.04 [0.00, 0.72]

18 Side‐effects (Any) (ALL) Show forest plot

8

3667

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

3.92 [1.21, 12.64]

19 Side‐effects (Any) (BY SUBGROUPS) Show forest plot

8

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

Subtotals only

19.1 Early gestational age (less than 20 weeks of gestation or pre‐pregnancy) at start of supplementation

4

3034

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

3.69 [0.42, 32.71]

19.2 Late gestational age (20 weeks or more of gestation) at start of supplementation

3

428

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

1.75 [0.99, 3.08]

19.3 Unspecified/mixed gestational age at start of supplementation

1

205

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

62.79 [3.89, 1013.31]

19.5 Non‐anaemic at start of supplementation

4

2897

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

3.27 [0.39, 27.31]

19.6 Unspecified/mixed anaemic status at start of supplementation

4

770

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

3.94 [1.09, 14.28]

19.7 Daily low dose (60 mg elemental iron or less)

4

566

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

1.36 [0.99, 1.87]

19.8 Daily higher dose (more than 60 mg elemental iron)

5

3148

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

12.12 [1.76, 83.43]

20 Very low birthweight (less than 1500 g) (ALL) Show forest plot

5

2687

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

0.73 [0.31, 1.74]

21 Perinatal death (ALL) Show forest plot

3

5036

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

0.93 [0.67, 1.29]

24 Infant Hb concentration at 3 months (g/L) (ALL) Show forest plot

1

197

Mean Difference (IV, Random, 95% CI)

0.0 [‐3.21, 3.21]

25 Infant serum ferritin concentration at 3 months (ug/L) (ALL) Show forest plot

1

197

Mean Difference (IV, Random, 95% CI)

19.0 [2.75, 35.25]

26 Infant Hb concentration at 6 months (g/L) (ALL) Show forest plot

2

533

Mean Difference (IV, Random, 95% CI)

‐1.25 [‐8.10, 5.59]

27 Infant serum ferritin concentration at 6 months (ug/L) (ALL) Show forest plot

1

197

Mean Difference (IV, Random, 95% CI)

11.0 [4.37, 17.63]

29 Admission to special care unit (ALL) Show forest plot

2

2805

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

0.95 [0.73, 1.23]

30 Very premature delivery (less than 34 weeks' gestation) (ALL) Show forest plot

4

1417

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

0.44 [0.16, 1.24]

31 Severe anaemia at term (Hb less than 70 g/L) (ALL) Show forest plot

8

1751

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

4.83 [0.23, 99.88]

32 Moderate anaemia at term (Hb more than 70 g/L and less than 90 g/L) (ALL) Show forest plot

9

1868

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

0.94 [0.55, 1.62]

33 Severe anaemia at any time during second and third trimester (ALL) Show forest plot

9

2089

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

0.48 [0.01, 34.52]

34 Moderate anaemia at any time during second or third trimester (ALL) Show forest plot

10

2266

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

0.42 [0.19, 0.92]

35 Infection during pregnancy (including urinary tract infections) (ALL) Show forest plot

2

3421

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

1.16 [0.83, 1.63]

36 Puerperal infection (ALL) Show forest plot

2

2169

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

0.72 [0.25, 2.10]

37 Antepartum haemorraghe (ALL) Show forest plot

2

1157

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

1.48 [0.51, 4.31]

38 Postpartum haemorraghe (ALL) Show forest plot

5

1554

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

0.95 [0.51, 1.78]

39 Transfusion provided (ALL) Show forest plot

3

3453

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

0.61 [0.38, 0.96]

40 Haemoglobin concentration within one month postpartum (ALL) Show forest plot

6

904

Mean Difference (IV, Random, 95% CI)

7.08 [4.70, 9.47]

41 Severe anaemia at postpartum (Hb less than 80 g/L) (ALL) Show forest plot

7

1094

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

0.06 [0.00, 1.05]

42 Moderate anaemia at postpartum (Hb more than 80 g/L and less than 100 g/L) (ALL) Show forest plot

4

831

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

0.55 [0.12, 2.51]

43 Diarrhoea (ALL) Show forest plot

3

1088

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

0.55 [0.32, 0.93]

44 Constipation (ALL) Show forest plot

4

1495

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

0.95 [0.62, 1.43]

45 Nausea (ALL) Show forest plot

4

1377

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

1.21 [0.72, 2.03]

46 Heartburn (ALL) Show forest plot

3

1323

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

1.19 [0.86, 1.66]

47 Vomiting (ALL) Show forest plot

4

1392

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

0.88 [0.59, 1.30]

48 Maternal death (death while pregnant or within 42 days of termination of pregnancy) (ALL) Show forest plot

1

47

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

0.0 [0.0, 0.0]

49 Maternal wellbeing/satisfaction (ALL) Show forest plot

2

2604

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

1.00 [0.91, 1.09]

50 Placental abruption (ALL) Show forest plot

2

2169

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

1.14 [0.32, 4.06]

51 Premature rupture of membranes (ALL) Show forest plot

1

727

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

0.99 [0.74, 1.34]

52 Pre‐eclampsia (ALL) Show forest plot

2

774

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

2.58 [0.81, 8.22]

91 Small for gestational age (less than 10th percentile weight at birth for gestational age) (not pre‐specified) Show forest plot

4

2511

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

0.87 [0.58, 1.30]

93 Cesarean delivery (not pre‐specified) Show forest plot

7

4283

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

0.94 [0.78, 1.13]

94 Birth length in cm (not pre‐specified) Show forest plot

5

2140

Mean Difference (IV, Random, 95% CI)

0.38 [0.10, 0.65]

95 Forceps or vacuum delivery (not pre‐specified) Show forest plot

2

477

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

1.50 [0.94, 2.40]

96 Breastfeeding at least 4 months (not pre‐specified) Show forest plot

1

48

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

1.00 [0.89, 1.13]

97 Haemoglobin concentration at 4‐8 weeks' postpartum (g/L) (not pre‐specified) Show forest plot

10

1188

Mean Difference (IV, Random, 95% CI)

5.13 [0.24, 10.02]

98 Apgar score < 7 at 5 minutes (not pre‐specified) Show forest plot

2

475

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

0.74 [0.17, 3.28]

99 Apgar Score at 5 min (not pre‐specified) Show forest plot

2

228

Mean Difference (IV, Random, 95% CI)

0.27 [‐0.07, 0.62]

Figures and Tables -
Comparison 1. Daily iron alone versus no intervention/placebo
Comparison 2. Intermittent iron alone versus daily iron alone

Outcome or subgroup title

No. of studies

No. of participants

Statistical method

Effect size

3 Birthweight (ALL) Show forest plot

1

41

Mean Difference (IV, Random, 95% CI)

‐68.0 [‐398.33, 262.33]

5 Premature delivery (less than 37 weeks of gestation) (ALL) Show forest plot

1

41

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

0.46 [0.02, 8.96]

12 Haemoconcentration during second or third trimester (Hb more than 130 g/L) (ALL) Show forest plot

2

64

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

0.54 [0.18, 1.58]

33 Severe anaemia at any time during second and third trimester (Hb less than 70 g/L) (ALL) Show forest plot

2

64

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

0.0 [0.0, 0.0]

34 Moderate anaemia at any time during second or third trimester (ALL) Show forest plot

2

64

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

2.42 [0.16, 35.56]

Figures and Tables -
Comparison 2. Intermittent iron alone versus daily iron alone
Comparison 3. Daily iron‐folic acid versus no intervention/placebo

Outcome or subgroup title

No. of studies

No. of participants

Statistical method

Effect size

1 Low birthweight (less than 2500 g) (ALL) Show forest plot

2

1368

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

1.06 [0.28, 4.02]

2 Low birthweight (less than 2500 g) (BY SUBGROUPS) Show forest plot

2

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

Subtotals only

2.1 Early gestational age (less than 20 weeks of gestation or pre‐pregnancy) at start of supplementation

2

1368

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

1.06 [0.28, 4.02]

2.6 Unspecified/mixed anaemic status at start of supplementation

2

1368

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

1.06 [0.28, 4.02]

2.7 Daily low dose (60 mg elemental iron or less)

1

1320

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

0.79 [0.69, 0.91]

2.8 Daily higher dose (more than 60 mg elemental iron)

1

48

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

5.0 [0.25, 98.96]

3 Birthweight (ALL) Show forest plot

2

1365

Mean Difference (IV, Random, 95% CI)

57.73 [7.66, 107.79]

4 Birthweight (BY SUBGROUPS) Show forest plot

2

Mean Difference (IV, Random, 95% CI)

Subtotals only

4.1 Early gestational age (less than 20 weeks of gestation or pre‐pregnancy) at start of supplementation

2

1365

Mean Difference (IV, Random, 95% CI)

57.73 [7.66, 107.79]

4.6 Unspecified/mixed anaemic status at start of supplementation

2

1365

Mean Difference (IV, Random, 95% CI)

57.73 [7.66, 107.79]

4.7 Daily low dose (60 mg elemental iron or less)

1

1320

Mean Difference (IV, Random, 95% CI)

65.0 [17.46, 112.54]

4.8 Daily higher dose (more than 60 mg elemental iron)

1

45

Mean Difference (IV, Random, 95% CI)

‐32.0 [‐213.62, 149.62]

5 Premature delivery (less than 37 weeks of gestation) (ALL) Show forest plot

3

1497

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

1.55 [0.40, 6.00]

6 Premature delivery (less than 37 weeks of gestation) (BY SUB GROUPS) Show forest plot

2

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

Subtotals only

6.1 Early gestational age (less than 20 weeks of gestation or pre‐pregnancy) at start of supplementation

2

1362

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

1.13 [0.92, 1.39]

6.2 Late gestational age (20 weeks or more of gestation) at start of supplementation

0

0

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

0.0 [0.0, 0.0]

6.6 Unspecified/mixed anaemic status at start of supplementation

2

1449

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

1.13 [0.92, 1.39]

6.7 Daily low dose (60 mg elemental iron or less)

2

1449

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

1.13 [0.92, 1.39]

7 Haemoglobin concentration at term (ALL) Show forest plot

4

179

Mean Difference (IV, Random, 95% CI)

12.00 [2.93, 21.07]

8 Haemoglobin concentration at term (BY SUBGROUPS) Show forest plot

4

Mean Difference (IV, Random, 95% CI)

Subtotals only

8.1 Early gestational age (less than 20 weeks of gestation or pre‐pregnancy) at start of supplementation

2

93

Mean Difference (IV, Random, 95% CI)

15.65 [11.84, 19.46]

8.2 Late gestational age (20 weeks or more of gestation) at start of supplementation

2

86

Mean Difference (IV, Random, 95% CI)

7.92 [‐11.68, 27.52]

8.5 Non‐anaemic at start of supplementation

1

48

Mean Difference (IV, Random, 95% CI)

17.10 [8.44, 25.76]

8.6 Unspecified/mixed anaemic status at start of supplementation

3

131

Mean Difference (IV, Random, 95% CI)

10.47 [‐1.07, 22.00]

8.7 Daily low dose (60 mg elemental iron or less)

0

0

Mean Difference (IV, Random, 95% CI)

0.0 [0.0, 0.0]

8.8 Daily higher dose (more than 60 mg elemental iron)

4

179

Mean Difference (IV, Random, 95% CI)

12.00 [2.93, 21.07]

9 Anaemia at term (Hb less than 110 g/L) (ALL) Show forest plot

3

346

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

0.27 [0.12, 0.56]

10 Haemoconcentration at term (Hb more than 130 g/L) (ALL) Show forest plot

3

353

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

1.74 [0.34, 8.94]

11 Haemoconcentration at term (Hb more than 130 g/L) (BY SUBGROUPS) Show forest plot

3

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

Subtotals only

11.1 Early gestational age (less than 20 weeks of gestation or pre‐pregnancy) at start of supplementation

1

75

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

3.37 [0.19, 60.03]

11.2 Late gestational age (20 weeks or more of gestation) at start of supplementation

3

298

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

1.97 [0.32, 12.08]

11.6 Unspecified/mixed anaemic status at start of supplementation

1

131

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

4.31 [0.26, 70.41]

11.7 Daily low dose (60 mg elemental iron or less)

1

131

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

4.31 [0.26, 70.41]

11.8 Daily higher dose (more than 60 mg elemental iron)

2

222

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

1.28 [0.24, 6.78]

12 Haemoconcentration during second or third trimester (ALL) Show forest plot

2

446

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

1.78 [0.63, 5.04]

13 Haemoconcentration during second or third trimester (BY SUBGROUPS) Show forest plot

2

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

Subtotals only

13.1 Early gestational age (less than 20 weeks of gestation or pre‐pregnancy) at start of supplementation

2

390

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

1.45 [0.33, 6.32]

13.2 Late gestational age (20 weeks or more of gestation) at start of supplementation

1

76

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

1.34 [0.50, 3.56]

13.3 Unspecified/mixed gestational age at start of supplementation

0

0

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

0.0 [0.0, 0.0]

13.5 Non‐anaemic at start of supplementation

0

0

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

0.0 [0.0, 0.0]

13.6 Unspecified/mixed anaemic status at start of supplementation

2

446

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

1.78 [0.63, 5.04]

13.7 Daily low dose (60 mg elemental iron or less)

2

446

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

1.78 [0.63, 5.04]

13.8 Daily higher dose (more than 60 mg elemental iron)

0

0

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

0.0 [0.0, 0.0]

14 Iron deficiency at term (as defined by two or more indicators) (ALL) Show forest plot

1

131

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

0.24 [0.06, 0.99]

15 Iron deficiency at term (as defined by two or more indicators) (BY SUBGROUPS) Show forest plot

1

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

Subtotals only

15.1 Early gestational age (less than 20 weeks of gestation or pre‐pregnancy) at start of supplementation

1

75

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

0.12 [0.01, 1.10]

15.2 Late gestational age (20 weeks or more of gestation) at start of supplementation

1

76

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

0.36 [0.08, 1.63]

15.5 Non‐anaemic at start of supplementation

0

0

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

0.0 [0.0, 0.0]

15.6 Unspecified/mixed anaemic status at start of supplementation

1

131

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

0.24 [0.06, 0.99]

15.7 Daily low dose (60 mg elemental iron or less)

1

131

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

0.24 [0.06, 0.99]

15.8 Daily higher dose (more than 60 mg elemental iron)

0

0

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

0.0 [0.0, 0.0]

16 Iron deficiency anaemia at term (ALL) Show forest plot

1

131

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

0.43 [0.17, 1.09]

17 Iron deficiency anaemia at term (BY SUBGROUPS) Show forest plot

1

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

Subtotals only

17.1 Early gestational age (less than 20 weeks of gestation or pre‐pregnancy) at start of supplementation

1

75

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

0.36 [0.12, 1.12]

17.2 Late gestational age (20 weeks or more of gestation) at start of supplementation

1

76

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

0.5 [0.18, 1.40]

17.5 Non‐anaemic at start of supplementation

0

0

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

0.0 [0.0, 0.0]

17.6 Unspecified/mixed anaemic status at start of supplementation

1

131

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

0.43 [0.17, 1.09]

17.7 Daily low dose (60 mg elemental iron or less)

1

131

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

0.43 [0.17, 1.09]

17.8 Daily higher dose (more than 60 mg elemental iron)

0

0

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

0.0 [0.0, 0.0]

18 Side effects (Any) (ALL) Show forest plot

1

456

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

44.32 [2.77, 709.09]

20 Very low birthweight (less than 1500 g) (ALL) Show forest plot

1

48

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

5.0 [0.25, 98.96]

21 Perinatal death (ALL) Show forest plot

3

1862

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

0.83 [0.58, 1.17]

29 Admission to special care unit (ALL) Show forest plot

1

48

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

0.0 [0.0, 0.0]

30 Very premature delivery (less than 34 weeks' gestation) (ALL) Show forest plot

2

92

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

5.0 [0.25, 98.96]

31 Severe anaemia at term (Hb less than 70 g/L) (ALL) Show forest plot

3

180

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

0.0 [0.0, 0.0]

32 Moderate anaemia at term (Hb more than 70g/L and less than 90 g/L) (ALL) Show forest plot

3

180

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

0.0 [0.0, 0.0]

33 Severe anaemia at any time during second and third trimester (Hb less than 70 g/L) (ALL) Show forest plot

4

523

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

0.11 [0.01, 0.83]

34 Moderate anaemia at any time during second or third trimester (ALL) Show forest plot

4

523

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

0.34 [0.11, 1.04]

35 Infection during pregnancy (including urinary tract infections) (ALL) Show forest plot

1

48

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

1.0 [0.15, 6.53]

36 Puerperal infection (ALL) Show forest plot

1

2863

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

0.55 [0.13, 2.28]

37 Antepartum haemorrhage (ALL) Show forest plot

2

145

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

1.25 [0.22, 7.12]

38 Postpartum haemorrhage (ALL) Show forest plot

1

68

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

0.12 [0.00, 2.71]

40 Haemoglobin concentration within one month postpartum (ALL) Show forest plot

1

45

Mean Difference (IV, Random, 95% CI)

10.40 [4.03, 16.77]

41 Severe anaemia at postpartum (Hb less than 80 g/L) (ALL) Show forest plot

3

525

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

0.05 [0.00, 0.76]

42 Moderate anaemia at postpartum (Hb more than 80 g/L and less than 100 g/L) (ALL) Show forest plot

3

525

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

0.34 [0.17, 0.69]

48 Maternal death (death while pregnant or within 42 days of termination of pregnancy) (ALL) Show forest plot

1

131

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

0.0 [0.0, 0.0]

50 Placental abruption (ALL) Show forest plot

1

2863

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

8.19 [0.49, 138.16]

52 Pre‐eclampsia (ALL) Show forest plot

1

48

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

3.00 [0.13, 70.16]

91 Small for gestational age (less than 10th percentile weight at birth for gestational age) (not pre‐specified) Show forest plot

1

1318

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

0.88 [0.80, 0.97]

92 Oedema during pregnancy (not pre‐specified) Show forest plot

1

67

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

2.82 [0.99, 8.09]

93 Caesarean delivery (not pre‐specified) Show forest plot

1

97

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

0.83 [0.22, 3.13]

94 Birth length in cm (not pre‐specified) Show forest plot

1

1320

Mean Difference (IV, Random, 95% CI)

0.20 [‐0.06, 0.46]

97 Haemoglobin concentration at 4‐8 weeks postpartum (not prespecified) Show forest plot

3

526

Mean Difference (IV, Random, 95% CI)

4.88 [‐0.85, 10.62]

Figures and Tables -
Comparison 3. Daily iron‐folic acid versus no intervention/placebo
Comparison 4. Intermittent iron‐folic acid versus daily iron‐folic acid

Outcome or subgroup title

No. of studies

No. of participants

Statistical method

Effect size

1 Low birthweight (less than 2500 g) (ALL) Show forest plot

4

730

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

1.05 [0.58, 1.91]

2 Low birthweight (less than 2500 g) (BY SUBGROUPS) Show forest plot

4

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

Subtotals only

2.1 Early gestational age (less than 20 weeks of gestation or pre‐pregnancy) at start of supplementation

2

455

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

1.29 [0.55, 3.01]

2.3 Unspecified/mixed gestational age at start of supplementation

2

275

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

0.85 [0.36, 1.99]

2.5 Non‐anaemic at start of supplementation

1

80

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

1.25 [0.36, 4.32]

2.7 Daily low dose (60 mg elemental iron or less)

3

650

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

0.99 [0.50, 1.97]

2.8 Daily higher dose (more than 60 mg elemental iron)

1

80

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

1.25 [0.36, 4.32]

3 Birthweight (ALL) Show forest plot

4

730

Mean Difference (IV, Random, 95% CI)

‐7.10 [‐67.20, 53.01]

4 Birthweight (BY SUBGROUPS) Show forest plot

4

Mean Difference (IV, Random, 95% CI)

Subtotals only

4.1 Early gestational age (less than 20 weeks of gestation or pre‐pregnancy) at start of supplementation

2

455

Mean Difference (IV, Random, 95% CI)

1.19 [‐70.50, 72.87]

4.3 Unspecified/mixed gestational age at start of supplementation

2

275

Mean Difference (IV, Random, 95% CI)

‐26.71 [‐137.00, 83.58]

4.5 Non‐anaemic at start of supplementation

1

80

Mean Difference (IV, Random, 95% CI)

0.0 [‐154.95, 154.95]

4.7 Daily low dose (60 mg elemental iron or less)

3

650

Mean Difference (IV, Random, 95% CI)

‐8.36 [‐73.56, 56.85]

4.8 Daily higher dose (more than 60 mg elemental iron)

1

80

Mean Difference (IV, Random, 95% CI)

0.0 [‐154.95, 154.95]

5 Premature delivery (less than 37 weeks of gestation) (ALL) Show forest plot

1

80

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

2.0 [0.39, 10.31]

7 Haemoglobin concentration at term (ALL) Show forest plot

3

475

Mean Difference (IV, Random, 95% CI)

‐0.83 [‐4.74, 3.08]

8 Haemoglobin concentration at term (BY SUBGROUPS) Show forest plot

3

Mean Difference (IV, Random, 95% CI)

Subtotals only

8.3 Unspecified/mixed gestational age at start of supplementation

2

301

Mean Difference (IV, Random, 95% CI)

‐2.19 [‐6.85, 2.47]

8.7 Daily low dose (60 mg elemental iron or less)

3

422

Mean Difference (IV, Random, 95% CI)

‐0.10 [‐5.15, 4.95]

8.8 Daily higher dose (more than 60 mg elemental iron)

1

109

Mean Difference (IV, Random, 95% CI)

‐0.82 [‐4.99, 3.35]

9 Anaemia at term (Hb < 110 g/L) (ALL) Show forest plot

3

475

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

1.20 [0.78, 1.83]

10 Haemoconcentration at term (Hb more than 130 g/L) (ALL) Show forest plot

3

475

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

0.93 [0.47, 1.82]

11 Haemoconcentration at term (Hb more than 130 g/L) (BY SUBGROUPS) Show forest plot

3

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

Subtotals only

11.7 Daily low dose (60 mg elemental iron or less)

3

422

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

1.24 [0.42, 3.66]

11.8 Daily higher dose (more than 60 mg elemental iron)

1

109

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

0.63 [0.19, 2.11]

12 Haemoconcentration during second or third trimester (Hb more than 130 g/L) (ALL) Show forest plot

6

1111

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

0.43 [0.24, 0.77]

13 Haemoconcentration during second or third trimester (Hb more than 130 g/L) (BY SUBGROUPS) Show forest plot

6

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

Subtotals only

13.1 Early gestational age (less than 20 weeks of gestation or pre‐pregnancy) at start of supplementation

2

250

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

0.52 [0.26, 1.01]

13.2 Late gestational age (20 weeks or more of gestation) at start of supplementation

1

166

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

0.24 [0.10, 0.55]

13.3 Unspecified/mixed gestational age at start of supplementation

3

695

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

0.46 [0.13, 1.65]

13.4 Anaemic at start of supplementation (Hb <110 g/L if in first or <105 g/L if in second trimester)

1

47

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

0.0 [0.0, 0.0]

13.5 Non‐anaemic at start of supplementation

1

80

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

0.6 [0.15, 2.34]

13.6 Unspecified/mixed anaemic status at start of supplementation

4

966

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

0.41 [0.21, 0.80]

13.7 Daily low dose (60 mg elemental iron or less)

5

953

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

0.41 [0.20, 0.82]

13.8 Daily higher dose (more than 60 mg elemental iron)

2

247

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

0.74 [0.42, 1.31]

16 Iron deficiency anaemia at term (based on two or more indicators) (ALL) Show forest plot

1

156

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

0.71 [0.08, 6.63]

18 Side effects (any) (ALL) Show forest plot

7

1307

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

0.69 [0.45, 1.04]

19 Side effects (any) (BY SUBGROUPS) Show forest plot

7

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

Subtotals only

19.1 Early gestational age (less than 20 weeks or pre‐pregnancy) at start of supplementation

1

80

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

0.2 [0.08, 0.53]

19.2 Late gestational age (20 weeks or more of gestation) at start of supplementation

1

172

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

1.0 [0.79, 1.27]

19.3 Unspecified/mixed gestational age at start of supplementation

5

1055

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

0.72 [0.42, 1.26]

19.4 Non‐anaemic at start of supplementation

1

80

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

0.2 [0.08, 0.53]

19.7 Daily low dose (60 mg elemental iron or less)

6

1171

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

0.92 [0.71, 1.19]

19.8 Daily higher dose (more than 60 mg elemental iron)

2

253

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

0.14 [0.07, 0.25]

20 Very low birthweight (less than 1500 g) (ALL) Show forest plot

4

737

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

0.0 [0.0, 0.0]

21 Perinatal death (ALL) Show forest plot

1

80

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

0.0 [0.0, 0.0]

27 Infant ferritin concentration at 6 months (ug/L) (ALL) Show forest plot

1

88

Mean Difference (IV, Random, 95% CI)

0.09 [0.05, 0.13]

30 Very premature delivery (less than 34 weeks of gestation) (ALL) Show forest plot

1

111

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

0.98 [0.06, 15.31]

31 Severe anaemia at term (Hb less than 70 g/L) (ALL) Show forest plot

4

555

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

0.0 [0.0, 0.0]

32 Moderate anaemia at term (Hb more than 70g/L and less than 90 g/L) (ALL) Show forest plot

3

475

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

1.03 [0.07, 16.23]

33 Severe anaemia at any time during second and third trimester (Hb less than 70 g/L) (ALL) Show forest plot

6

1240

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

0.0 [0.0, 0.0]

34 Moderate anaemia at any time during second or third trimester (ALL) Show forest plot

6

1111

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

2.54 [0.63, 10.17]

37 Antepartum haemorraghe (ALL) Show forest plot

1

110

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

1.0 [0.06, 15.59]

41 Severe anaemia at postpartum (Hb less than 80 g/L) (ALL) Show forest plot

1

169

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

0.43 [0.04, 4.64]

42 Moderate anaemia at postpartum (Hb more than 80 g/L and less than 100 g/L) (ALL) Show forest plot

1

169

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

1.14 [0.26, 4.95]

43 Diarrhoea (ALL) Show forest plot

4

553

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

0.94 [0.38, 2.34]

44 Constipation (ALL) Show forest plot

4

553

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

0.99 [0.48, 2.06]

45 Nausea (ALL) Show forest plot

5

854

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

0.59 [0.30, 1.16]

46 Heartburn (ALL) Show forest plot

3

473

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

0.78 [0.29, 2.06]

47 Vomiting (ALL) Show forest plot

5

854

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

1.44 [0.82, 2.53]

50 Placental abruption (ALL) Show forest plot

1

110

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

0.33 [0.01, 8.01]

51 Premature rupture of membranes (ALL) Show forest plot

1

80

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

0.33 [0.01, 7.95]

68 Ln (serum ferritin concentration) 4‐8 wk postpartum (not pre‐specified) Show forest plot

1

160

Mean Difference (IV, Random, 95% CI)

‐0.13 [‐0.42, 0.16]

70 Low serum ferritin concentration at postpartum (4‐8 wk) (not pre‐specified) Show forest plot

1

146

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

1.19 [0.40, 3.57]

71 High serum transferrin receptors at 6 weeks postpartum (not pre‐specified) Show forest plot

1

146

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

0.69 [0.36, 1.33]

93 Caesarean delivery (not pre‐specified) Show forest plot

1

80

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

0.89 [0.38, 2.07]

97 Haemoglobin concentration at 4‐8 weeks postpartum (not pre‐specified) Show forest plot

1

146

Mean Difference (IV, Random, 95% CI)

2.0 [‐3.86, 7.86]

Figures and Tables -
Comparison 4. Intermittent iron‐folic acid versus daily iron‐folic acid