Iodine deficiency in pregnant women at first trimester in Ankara

Our study demonstrated that pregnant women still develop iodine deficiency in Ankara despite mandatory iodine salt use. Iodized salt use does not provide enough iodine supplement, especially in pregnant women. Iodine supplementation has been shown to enhance neurologic development and psychomotor performance. We suggest that iodine should be a part of routine laboratory evaluation at the first prenatal visit for its importance in early pregnancy. Also, iodized salt use education should be provided to women to eradicate iodine deficiency. Iodine supplements should be recommended to all pregnant women in addition to iodized salt.