Iron Deficiency Anemia in PregnancyIron is an essential element in the production of hemoglobin, the substance in red blood cells that carries oxygen to others cells of the body. During pregnancy, the iron requirement of the body increases. This is because blood volume increases by 50%, and your body needs more iron to produce extra hemoglobin for all the additional blood. Iron is also needed for your baby’s development and your growing placenta. When a woman’s iron stores cannot meet the body’s increased demands and if she doesn’t have enough iron to make hemoglobin, she becomes anemic. The risk of having iron deficiency anemia is increased in women with iron-deficient diets and those suffering from extreme morning sickness. Multiple pregnancy, having two pregnancies close together and heavy menstrual flow pre-conception also predispose a woman to this condition. Iron deficiency anemia can be very dangerous. It may lead to preterm delivery and your baby may have a low birth weight. Anemia is also linked to newborn death and still births. It is something to be dealt with seriously and should be treated before labor and delivery. Anemia also affects the pregnant woman. It makes her vulnerable to infections, pregnancy and labor can be very difficult, and a blood transfusion is possible. Your health care provider will prescribe iron supplements as much as 60 to 120mg daily. This is apart from the iron-rich diet that you need to consume to meet your iron requirement. Some good sources of iron are red meats, poultry, lentils, tofu and green leafy vegetables. In taking iron supplements, it is advisable to take it with fruit juices. Vitamin C in juices aids in iron absorption. Avoid taking iron supplements with milk. Calcium can hinder in iron absorption. For this reason, drink milk in between meals instead. Related Articles
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