Assessment of Vitamin and Micronutrient Supplement Use among Antenatal Women in Ede, Osun State, South West Nigeria

Background: Adequate micronutrient supplementation during pregnancy is essential for maternal and foetal health outcomes. However, the pattern, appropriateness, and consistency of supplement use among Nigerian antenatal women remain poorly characterised outside major urban centres. This study assessed vitamin and micronutrient supplement use among antenatal women attending the General Hospital Ede in Osun State. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 230 pregnant women receiving antenatal care. An interviewer-administered questionnaire assessed supplement types, compliance, source of prescription, and knowledge of supplement indications. Supplement use was compared against Federal Ministry of Health antenatal care guidelines. Results: Iron and folic acid supplements were the most prescribed (93%), but consistent daily use was reported by only 58 percent of respondents. Calcium supplementation was prescribed in only 24 percent of patients despite evidence-based recommendations. Multivitamin use outside of prescribed supplements was reported by 41 percent, largely influenced by family recommendations. Conclusion: Micronutrient supplement uptake and adherence among Ede antenatal women require improvement, particularly for calcium and consistent iron-folate use. Structured antenatal counselling and monitoring of supplement adherence should be strengthened. Keywords: antenatal supplements, micronutrients, pregnancy, Osun State, iron-folic acid