LITERATURE REVIEW: NUTRITIONAL STATUS OF PREGNANT WOMEN WITH LOW BIRTH WEIGHT (LBW)

Abstract

Background: Pregnancy is a critical period requiring optimal nutrition to support maternal health and fetal development. In Indonesia, Chronic Energy Deficiency (CED) remains a significant public health issue, with prevalence ranging from 13.6% to 35.9%, identified by an Upper Arm Circumference (UAC) below 23.5 cm. Poor nutritional status during this stage can lead to various adverse outcomes affecting both mother and child. Objective This study aims to examine the relationship between maternal nutritional status and the occurrence of Low Birth Weight (LBW) and stunting, as well as to identify the main factors that influence nutritional status throughout pregnancy. Methods A descriptive‑analytical literature review was conducted using secondary data sourced from scientific journals published between 2013 and 2019. Relevant information was collected, analyzed, and synthesized to draw consistent conclusions. Result The findings show that pregnant women with CED have a risk 2.2 to 4.15 times higher of giving birth to infants with LBW and children who experience stunting compared to mothers with normal nutritional status. Nutritional status is strongly influenced by maternal knowledge, attitude, and socioeconomic conditions, while factors such as education level and parity do not always demonstrate a direct effect. Furthermore, health education proves effective in improving understanding and preventing nutritional deficiencies. Conclusion Maternal nutritional status is a key determinant of successful pregnancy and long‑term child growth. Regular monitoring and early intervention are therefore necessary to improve maternal health and break the intergenerational cycle of malnutrition.