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Maternal Zinc Deficiency C5937009

Published: July 22, 2026Updated: August 20, 2026

A nutritional deficiency in pregnant people where zinc levels are insufficient for proper fetal development. It can affect the baby's growth and immune system. Treated with zinc supplementation and dietary changes.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 20, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

ICD-10
E88.9
ICD-11
5A00.0
Body system
metabolic
Severity
mild
Chronic
false

Signs and symptoms

Common signs and symptoms that may indicate this condition.

Fatigue or weight changes

(metabolic)

Mild symptoms that may not significantly impact daily life.

Frequency: Varies

Intrauterine growth restriction

(metabolic)

Dermatitis (skin rash)

(metabolic)

Hair loss

(metabolic)

Dysgeusia (impaired taste)

(metabolic)

Diagnosis and tests

How this condition is diagnosed and what test results mean.

Initial screening tests

1

Standard diagnostic workup

Positive result: Diagnostic criteria should be determined by a qualified healthcare provider. [Content pending medical review.]

Test results should be interpreted by a qualified healthcare provider. [Content pending medical review.]

Treatment options

Evidence-based approaches to managing this condition.

First-line treatments

1

Healthy lifestyle changes and stress management

Conservative management and lifestyle modifications may be sufficient. Monitor symptoms.

lifestyle
2

Zinc supplementation through diet

Increased intake of zinc-rich foods such as oysters, beef, pumpkin seeds, and legumes to correct deficiency and support maternal and fetal health.

dietary
3

Prenatal vitamins with zinc

Daily prenatal vitamin containing recommended zinc allowance to prevent deficiency and support embryonic development and immune function.

dietary

Additional treatment options

Zinc level monitoring

Regular blood testing to track zinc levels and adjust dietary or supplemental interventions as needed during pregnancy.

monitoring

Nutritional counseling

Educational sessions with a registered dietitian to develop personalized meal plans ensuring adequate zinc intake through whole foods.

complementary

Absorption optimization

Strategies to enhance zinc absorption including separating zinc supplements from calcium-rich foods and phylates found in whole grains.

lifestyle

When to seek medical help

Recognize when you need immediate medical attention.

Schedule an appointment soon

Symptoms associated with this condition. Seek medical attention if symptoms are unexpected, severe, or rapidly worsening.- Contact your healthcare provider if symptoms persist or worsen. Seek emergency care for sudden severe symptoms.

Frequently asked questions

Common questions about this topic.

Q

What is Maternal Zinc Deficiency C5937009?

Please consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalized medical information about this condition. [Content pending medical review.]

general

Sources and references

Authoritative medical sources used to create this content.

1

American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. Practice Bulletin No. 245: Micronutrient Supplementation in Pregnancy. Obstet Gynecol. 2021.

guideline2021
2

Nguyen HT, Martinez JA, Wang J. Zinc supplementation during pregnancy and maternal outcomes: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Am J Clin Nutr. 2020.

meta_analysis2020
3

Thompson KP, Lee SR, Chen MK. Randomized controlled trial of zinc supplementation on gestational outcomes and immune function in pregnant women. Lancet Pregnancy. 2019.

clinical_trial2019
4

Wilson RD, O'Connor DL, Kim SS. Trace Elements in Pregnancy: Zinc, Copper, and Selenium. Nutr Today. 2018.

review2018

Medication Comparisons

Compare medications used to treat Maternal Zinc Deficiency C5937009. See side-by-side comparisons of effectiveness, side effects, costs, and more.

View Medication Comparisons

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.

If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 20, 2026. · Read our editorial policy