Maternal BMI and nutritional status in early pregnancy and its impact on neonatal outcomes at birth in Bangladesh.

Multiple maternal micronutrient deficiencies were present in early pregnancy. Maternal BMI in early pregnancy was not related to preterm deliveries or LBW. LBW was associated with lower folate, elevated cord triglyceride concentrations of the neonates and mother's height and increase in maternal homocysteine levels. The data has important implications for pregnancy care in Bangladesh and other similar communities.