Iron Deficiency Anemia in Pregnancy: Causes, Consequences, and Care

Iron deficiency anemia (IDA) is a common problem that faced by pregnant women during pregnancy, affecting nearly 40-50% of pregnant women worldwide. Iron Deficiency in pregnancy happens when the body have not enough iron to generate hemoglobin, resulting to decreased oxygen delivery to tissues and organs. It is very difficult to care the health of both mother and baby.

Reason of Iron Deficiency Anemia in Pregnancy:

  • Expand Blood Volume: Pregnancy elevates blood production by 30-50%, demanding more iron.
  • Inadequate Diet: Improper consumption of iron-rich foods (red meat, leafy greens, beans) worsens deficiency.
  • Unborn Need: For development of fetus needs more iron for its own blood and organ development.
  • Gastrointestinal Problems: Conditions like nausea or malabsorption disorders reduce iron uptake.

Result of Low Iron in Pregnancy:

Low Iron during pregnancy leads serious health risks. Mother can experience extreme fatigue, increased weakness, proneness, poor work capacity, and complications during delivery, including postpartum depression. Also fetus affected with low iron deficiencies with  result in low birth weight, preterm delivery, and impaired cognitive and physical development. High level of anemia can also increase the risk of maternal mortality and perinatal death.

Cure of Low iron in Pregnancy:

Deficiency of low iron needs a comprehensive approach. Constant checkup for hemoglobin levels during prenatal visits is essential for early diagnosis. Counseling with Dieticians plays a crucial role. It encourages consumption of iron-rich foods such as leafy greens, red meat, legumes, and fortified cereals. Iron supplements are often prescribed during pregnancy, especially in the second and third trimesters. These may be oral tablets or, in severe cases, intravenous iron therapy. Iron with vitamin C enhances its absorption, but make sure these supplements intake should not be around of tea, coffee, and calcium as they inhibit iron absorption.

Summary:

Low Iron or Low Hemoglobin in pregnancy is a stoppable action with required suggestion for maternal and fetal health. Timely intervention, nutritional awareness, and regular monitoring can ensure a healthier pregnancy and childbirth experience.

Also Read: Guidance to Garbhsanskar Nurturing Baby During Pregnancy