Scolaris Content Display Scolaris Content Display

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) (not pre‐specified).
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) (not pre‐specified).

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 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 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 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 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 93 Cesarean delivery (not prespecified).
Figures and Tables -
Analysis 1.93

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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 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 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 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) (not pre‐specified).
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) (not pre‐specified).

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 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 haemorraghe (ALL).
Figures and Tables -
Analysis 3.37

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

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

Comparison 3 Daily iron‐folic acid versus no intervention/placebo, Outcome 38 Postpartum haemorraghe (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 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 92 Oedema during pregnancy (not prespecified).
Figures and Tables -
Analysis 3.92

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

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

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

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 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) (not prespecified).
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) (not prespecified).

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 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 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 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 Diarrhea (ALL).
Figures and Tables -
Analysis 4.43

Comparison 4 Intermittent iron‐folic acid versus daily iron‐folic acid, Outcome 43 Diarrhea (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 68 Ln (serum ferritin concentration) 4‐8 wk postpartum (not prespecified).
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 prespecified).

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

Comparison 4 Intermittent iron‐folic acid versus daily iron‐folic acid, Outcome 70 Low serum ferritin concentration at post partum (4‐8 wk) (not prespecified).

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

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

Table 1. Methodological quality assessment of included trials

Trial

Randomisation

Allocation

Blinding

Completeness of data

Quality rating

Barton 1994

A. Adequate

A. Adequate

A. Participant and care provider blinded

A. Adequate. Less than 5% lost to follow up

HIGH

Batu 1976

B. Unclear method

B. Unclear

B. Participant blinded. Care provider and outcome assessor not clear

B. Unclear

Butler 1968

A. Adequate

A. Adequate

C. Open

C. Inadequate. More than 20% lost to follow up

Buytaert 1983

A. Adequate

A. Adequate

C. Open

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

HIGH

Chanarin 1971

C. Quasi randomised by sequence assignment

C. Inadequate

A. Participant and care provider blinded

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

Charoenlarp 1988

A. Adequate

B. Unclear

B. Participant and outcome assessor blinded. Care provider unclear

Chew 1996a

A. Adequate

A. Adequate by sealed envelopes

A. Participant, care provider and outcome assessor blinded

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

HIGH

Chew 1996b

A. Adequate

A. Adequate by sealed envelopes

C. Participant and care provider not blinded. Outcome assessor blinded

C. Inadequate. More than 20% lost to follow up

Chisholm 1966

B. Unclear method

A. Adequate

A. Participant and care provider blinded

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

Cogswell 2003

A. Adequate

A. Adequate

A. Participant,care provider and outcome assessor blinded

C. Inadequate. More than 20% lost to follow up

HIGH

De Benaze 1989

B. Unclear method

A. Adequate

A. Participant and care provider blinded

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

Ekstrom 2002

A. Adequate by cluster

D. Not used

C. Participant and care provider not blinded. Outcome assessor unclear

C. Inadequate. More than 20% lost to follow up

Eskeland 1997

A. Adequate

A. Adequate

A. Participant, care provider and outcome assessor blinded

C. Inadequate. More than 20% lost to follow up

HIGH

Hankin 1963

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

C. Inadequate

C. Open

A. Less than 5% excluded

Holly 1955

B. Unclear method

B. Unclear

C. Participant and care provider not blinded. Outcome assessor unclear

B. Unclear

Hood 1960

B. Unclear method

B. Unclear

C. Participant and care provider not blinded. Outcome assessor unclear

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

Kerr 1958

A. Adequate

B. Unclear

C. Participant blinded. Care provider not blinded. Outcome assessor unclear

C. Inadequate. More than 20% lost to follow up

Liu 1996

B. Unclear method

A. Adequate by sealed envelopes

C. Participant and care provider not blinded. Outcome assessor blinded

A. Adequate. Less than 5% lost to follow up

Makrides 2003

A. Adequate

A. Adequate

A. Participant and care provider blinded

A. Adequate. Less than 5% loss to follow up

HIGH

Menendez 1994

B. Unclear method

C. Inadequate

C. Participant and care provider not blinded. Outcome assessor blinded

C. Inadequate. More than 20% lost to follow up

Milman 1991

B. Unclear method

B. Unclear

A. Participant and care provider blinded. Outcome assessor unclear

A. Adequate. Less than 5% lost to follow up

Ortega‐Soler 1998

B. Not stated

D. Not used

B. Unclear

B. Unclear

Paintin 1966

B. Unclear method

A. Adequate by sequential numbers

A. Participant and care provider blinded

A. Adequate. Less than 5% lost to follow up

Pita 1999

C. Quasi randomised

D. Not used

C. Open

C. Inadequate. More than 20% lost to follow up

Preziosi 1997

A. Adequate

A. Adequate

A. Participant and care provider blinded. Outcome assessor blinded

B. Unclear

HIGH

Pritchard 1958

B. Unclear method

B. Unclear

C. Open

B. Unclear

Puolakka 1980

B. Unclear method

B. Unclear

C. Open

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

Ridwan 1996

A. Adequate

D. Not used

C. Participant and care provider not blinded. Outcome assessor blinded

C. Inadequate. More than 20% lost to follow up

Robinson 1998

C. Quasi randomised by alternate numbers

B. Unclear

C. Participant and care provider not blinded

C. More than 20% lost to follow up

Romslo 1983

B. Unclear method

B. Unclear

C. Participant blinded. Care provider and outcome assessor not blinded

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

Svanberg 1975

B. Unclear method

B. Unclear

A. Participant, care provider, and outcome assessor blinded

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

Taylor 1982

B. Unclear method

B. Unclear

C. Open

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

Tura 1989

A. Adequate

A. Adequate

C. Open

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

HIGH

Van Eijk 1978

B. Not stated

D. Not used

C. Open

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

Wallenburg 1983

A. Adequate

A. Adequate

C. Open

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

HIGH

Willoughby 1967

B. Unclear method

B. Unclear

B. Unclear

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

Wills 1947

C. Quasi randomised by alternate allocation

D. Not used

A. Participant and care provider blinded. Outcome assessor blinded

C. Inadequate. More than 20% lost to follow up

Winichagoon 2003

B. Unclear method of cluster randomisation

D. Not used

C. Open

C. Inadequate. more than 20% lost to follow up

Young 2000

A. Adequate

B. Unclear

C. Participant and care provider not blinded. Outcome assessor unclear

C. Inadequate. More than 20% lost to follow up

Yu 1998

C. Quasi randomised

C. Inadequate

C. Open

C. More than 20% lost to follow up

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

4

1147

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

0.59 [0.23, 1.49]

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

643

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

0.59 [0.12, 2.96]

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]

2.4 Non‐anaemic at start of supplementation

3

697

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

0.59 [0.12, 2.96]

2.6 Unspecified/mixed anaemic status at start of supplementation

1

450

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

0.55 [0.22, 1.38]

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

4

1147

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

0.59 [0.23, 1.49]

3 Birthweight (g) (ALL) Show forest plot

5

925

Mean Difference (IV, Random, 95% CI)

22.49 [‐99.35, 144.34]

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

6

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

4

791

Mean Difference (IV, Random, 95% CI)

‐7.14 [‐158.36, 144.09]

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]

4.4 Non‐anaemic at start of supplementation

4

728

Mean Difference (IV, Random, 95% CI)

12.15 [‐164.99, 189.29]

4.6 Unspecified/mixed anaemic status at start of supplementation

2

314

Mean Difference (IV, Random, 95% CI)

6.99 [‐83.27, 97.25]

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

4

814

Mean Difference (IV, Random, 95% CI)

43.36 [‐74.70, 161.43]

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

3

341

Mean Difference (IV, Random, 95% CI)

‐47.09 [‐189.44, 95.27]

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

3

690

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

0.76 [0.47, 1.24]

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

3

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

643

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

0.78 [0.45, 1.32]

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]

6.4 Non‐anaemic at start of supplementation

3

690

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

0.76 [0.47, 1.24]

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

3

690

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

0.76 [0.47, 1.24]

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

15

1516

Mean Difference (IV, Random, 95% CI)

7.53 [4.40, 10.66]

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

15

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

11

1345

Mean Difference (IV, Random, 95% CI)

8.05 [4.85, 11.25]

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

41

Mean Difference (IV, Random, 95% CI)

‐11.0 [‐18.65, ‐3.35]

8.4 Non‐anaemic at start of supplementation

8

1014

Mean Difference (IV, Random, 95% CI)

6.73 [2.89, 10.57]

8.6 Unspecified/mixed anaemic status at start of supplementation

7

502

Mean Difference (IV, Random, 95% CI)

8.40 [3.16, 13.64]

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

6

995

Mean Difference (IV, Random, 95% CI)

6.42 [2.63, 10.21]

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

9

521

Mean Difference (IV, Random, 95% CI)

8.38 [3.10, 13.66]

9 Anaemia at term (Hb less than 110 g/L) (not pre‐specified) Show forest plot

13

1696

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

0.26 [0.16, 0.43]

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

8

1222

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

3.01 [1.46, 6.19]

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

8

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

3

752

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

1.60 [0.22, 11.41]

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]

11.4 Non‐anaemic at start of supplementation

3

590

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

1.15 [0.05, 24.75]

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)

3

590

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

1.15 [0.05, 24.75]

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

5

632

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

4.03 [1.39, 11.72]

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

6

1133

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

1.90 [1.07, 3.35]

13 Haemoconcentration during second or third trimester (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

3

814

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

2.18 [0.97, 4.89]

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]

13.4 Non‐anaemic at start of supplementation

3

654

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

1.60 [0.85, 2.99]

13.6 Unspecified/mixed anaemic status at start of supplementation

3

479

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

2.61 [0.64, 10.65]

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

3

654

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

1.60 [0.85, 2.99]

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

3

479

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

2.61 [0.64, 10.65]

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]

15.4 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

5

940

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

0.33 [0.16, 0.69]

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

5

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

4

895

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]

17.4 Non‐anaemic at start of supplementation

4

820

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)

4

820

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

6

1099

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

1.90 [1.09, 3.33]

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

6

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

2

466

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

1.42 [0.89, 2.26]

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]

19.4 Non‐anaemic at start of supplementation

2

329

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

1.31 [0.94, 1.82]

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)

3

580

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

10.64 [0.67, 170.03]

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

3

697

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

0.55 [0.03, 9.07]

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

1

197

Mean Difference (IV, Random, 95% CI)

‐5.0 [‐9.11, ‐0.89]

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]

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

3

690

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

0.32 [0.10, 1.09]

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

7

1024

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

8

1141

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

6

1075

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

4.98 [0.24, 103.01]

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

7

1252

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

0.59 [0.35, 1.01]

36 Puerperal infection (ALL) Show forest plot

1

1442

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

0.58 [0.14, 2.40]

37 Antepartum haemorraghe (ALL) Show forest plot

1

430

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

2.97 [0.12, 72.56]

38 Postpartum haemorraghe (ALL) Show forest plot

3

583

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

0.77 [0.47, 1.27]

39 Transfusion provided (ALL) Show forest plot

1

32

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

0.33 [0.01, 7.62]

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

4

833

Mean Difference (IV, Random, 95% CI)

6.10 [3.70, 8.49]

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

6

778

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

0.0 [0.0, 0.0]

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

3

478

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

2.81 [0.12, 68.54]

43 Diarrhoea (ALL) Show forest plot

1

173

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

0.98 [0.09, 10.61]

44 Constipation (ALL) Show forest plot

2

580

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

0.88 [0.18, 4.40]

45 Nausea (ALL) Show forest plot

3

650

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

2.38 [0.49, 11.52]

46 Heartburn (ALL) Show forest plot

1

408

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

1.0 [0.82, 1.22]

47 Vomiting (ALL) Show forest plot

2

477

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

0.88 [0.38, 2.07]

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

1

49

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

0.91 [0.77, 1.08]

50 Placental abruption (ALL) Show forest plot

1

1442

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

2.88 [0.12, 70.53]

52 Pre‐eclampsia (ALL) Show forest plot

1

47

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

0.96 [0.06, 14.43]

93 Cesarean delivery (not prespecified) Show forest plot

3

508

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

1.06 [0.75, 1.50]

94 Birth length in cm (not prespecified) Show forest plot

4

877

Mean Difference (IV, Random, 95% CI)

0.24 [‐0.17, 0.65]

95 Forceps or vacuum delivery (not prespecified) Show forest plot

2

477

Odds Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

1.59 [0.93, 2.74]

96 Breastfeeding at least 4 months (not prespecified) 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 prespecified) Show forest plot

7

586

Mean Difference (IV, Random, 95% CI)

2.28 [0.40, 4.16]

98 Apgar score < 7 at 5 minutes (not prespecified) 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 prespecified) 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

1

48

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

5.0 [0.25, 98.96]

3 Birthweight (ALL) Show forest plot

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

1

48

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

7.00 [0.38, 128.61]

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]

8.4 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]

8.8 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) (not pre‐specified) 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

2

222

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

1.28 [0.24, 6.78]

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

2

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

Subtotals only

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

2

222

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

1.28 [0.24, 6.78]

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]

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

2

145

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

2.5 [0.10, 59.88]

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

1

48

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

2

136

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

2

136

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

2

164

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

164

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

0.0 [0.0, 0.0]

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 haemorraghe (ALL) Show forest plot

2

145

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

1.25 [0.22, 7.12]

38 Postpartum haemorraghe (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

1

67

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

0.0 [0.0, 0.0]

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

1

67

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]

92 Oedema during pregnancy (not prespecified) Show forest plot

1

67

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

2.82 [0.99, 8.09]

93 Cesarean delivery (not prespecified) Show forest plot

1

97

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

0.83 [0.22, 3.13]

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

2

112

Mean Difference (IV, Random, 95% CI)

2.01 [‐0.68, 4.70]

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

3

650

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

0.99 [0.50, 1.97]

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

3

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

1

375

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

1.33 [0.42, 4.22]

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]

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

3

650

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

0.99 [0.50, 1.97]

3 Birthweight (ALL) Show forest plot

3

650

Mean Difference (IV, Random, 95% CI)

‐8.36 [‐73.56, 56.85]

4 Birthweight (BY SUBGROUPS) Show forest plot

3

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

1

375

Mean Difference (IV, Random, 95% CI)

1.51 [‐79.35, 82.37]

4.3 Unspecified/mixed gestational age at start of supplementation

2

275

Mean Difference (IV, Random, 95% CI)

‐26.71 [‐137.00, 83.58]

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

3

650

Mean Difference (IV, Random, 95% CI)

‐8.36 [‐73.56, 56.85]

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

8.7 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) (not prespecified) 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

5

1031

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

0.41 [0.21, 0.80]

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

5

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

1

170

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

0.49 [0.23, 1.07]

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]

13.6 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)

1

167

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

0.77 [0.41, 1.44]

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

6

1227

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

0.80 [0.54, 1.17]

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

6

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

Subtotals only

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]

19.7 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)

1

173

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

0.11 [0.05, 0.23]

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

3

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

Subtotals only

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]

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

3

475

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

5

1160

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

5

1031

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

2.80 [0.39, 19.88]

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 Diarrhea (ALL) Show forest plot

3

473

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

1.26 [0.56, 2.81]

44 Constipation (ALL) Show forest plot

3

473

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

1.08 [0.51, 2.29]

45 Nausea (ALL) Show forest plot

4

774

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

0.71 [0.36, 1.40]

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

4

774

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

1.69 [1.15, 2.47]

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

1

160

Mean Difference (IV, Random, 95% CI)

‐0.13 [‐0.42, 0.16]

70 Low serum ferritin concentration at post partum (4‐8 wk) (not prespecified) 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 prespecified) Show forest plot

1

146

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Random, 95% CI)

0.69 [0.36, 1.33]

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