Predictors of maternal hypocalcemia among pregnant women attending at a tertiary referral hospital in Tanzania: a cross-sectional study

We found that one out of five pregnant women had maternal hypocalcemia. The independent predictors of maternal hypocalcemia were, having multiple pregnancies, previous history of PE-E, lack of calcium supplementation during antenatal visits, having less than 4 antenatal visits, residing in rural areas and use of MgSO4 and/or Calcium channel blocker. Routine screening for maternal hypocalcemia during antenatal clinic visits, routine calcium supplementation during antenatal visits should be strictly adhered, and education on nutrition regarding calcium-rich food should be emphasized.