Pregnancy can bring about many changes in the body, with hormonal fluctuations often causing a range of symptoms and discomforts. These shifts can also increase the risk of certain health conditions, such as iron deficiency anaemia.
Iron deficiency occurs when the body has insufficient iron levels, a mineral necessary for producing haemoglobin, a protein in Red Blood Cells (RBCs) that transports oxygen from the lungs to tissues throughout the body. Additionally, iron supports the production of myoglobin, a protein supplying oxygen to muscles. Severe iron deficiency can disrupt RBC production, leading to iron deficiency anaemia, a condition that can impact both maternal and foetal health during pregnancy.
In an interaction with OnlyMyHealth, Dr Sonam Bakshi, Consultant Obstetrician and Gynaecologist, Motherhood Hospitals, Indore, explains why iron deficiency anaemia is prevalent among pregnant women and signs to recognise it early.
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Why Iron Deficiency Anaemia Is Common Among Pregnant Women
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), anaemia is said to affect an estimated 40% of all children aged 6–59 months, 37% of pregnant women, and 30% of women 15–49 years of age. Of all the causes of anaemia, iron deficiency is considered the most common nutritional deficiency leading to the condition, the global health body highlights.
Dr Bakshi explains that during pregnancy, a woman’s blood volume increases significantly to support the growing baby, leading to higher iron demands. This can easily deplete iron stores, especially if the woman starts pregnancy with low iron levels or does not consume sufficient iron through diet.
Additionally, iron is essential for the baby’s growth and development, which further increases the risk of deficiency, the doctor adds.
How Iron Deficiency Anaemia Affects Mother And Child
According to Dr Bakshi, untreated iron deficiency anaemia can lead to serious complications.
“For the mother, it can increase the risk of severe fatigue, infections, and complications during delivery. For the baby, it may lead to low birth weight, preterm delivery, and developmental delays,” she says, adding that severe anaemia during pregnancy can also affect the baby’s iron stores, impacting their health after birth.
Common Symptoms Of Iron Deficiency Anaemia In Pregnant Women
Here are some of the common symptoms of iron deficiency anaemia in pregnancy:
- Fatigue
- Weakness
- Pale skin
- Shortness of breath
- Dizziness
- An unusually fast heartbeat
Dr Bakshi adds, “Some women may experience headaches, cold hands and feet, and difficulty concentrating. These symptoms can be exacerbated by the increased iron demands of pregnancy.”
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Tips To Increase Iron Levels In The Body
Iron-rich foods such as lean red meat, poultry, fish, spinach, legumes, and fortified cereals are beneficial in preventing deficiency.
Vitamin C-rich foods (like citrus fruits) aid iron absorption, so including them in meals can be helpful.
Additionally, prenatal supplements containing iron are often recommended, but they should be taken under medical supervision.
It is important to note that pregnant women are typically screened for anaemia during their first prenatal visit and possibly again in the second and third trimesters. Treatment usually includes iron supplements, dietary adjustments, and, in some cases, intravenous iron therapy if levels are severely low or if oral supplements are ineffective. Dr Bakshi advises regular monitoring to ensure effective treatment and support throughout pregnancy.