What is Anemia in Pregnancy

Pregnancy anemia is a condition that happens when a pregnant woman does not have enough healthy red blood cells to carry oxygen to the body tissues and the baby.

Red blood cells need a protein called hemoglobin, which contains iron, to work appropriately. The body needs more iron for the mother and the growing baby during pregnancy. Without sufficient iron or certain vitamins in the diet, anemia can occur.

What Causes Anemia During Pregnancy?

The most common cause of anemia in pregnancy is a deficiency of iron. Iron is necessary to make hemoglobin, and pregnancy makes the body need more iron.

If there is not enough iron in the diet, it is difficult for the body to make the extra hemoglobin needed.

Aside from iron deficiency, anemia may be due to a lack of folic acid or vitamin B12. Anemia in certain pregnant women may also be due to too much blood loss, infection, or illnesses like sickle cell disease.

What Are the Symptoms of Anemia in Pregnancy?

The symptoms of anemia can be mild and easily ignored. Some of the common symptoms include feeling very tired, pale, headaches, or dizziness. With more severe cases, shortness of breath or rapid heartbeat can result.

Some women experience weakness or problems concentrating. Because many of the symptoms are typical in pregnancy for other reasons, be sure to visit your health care provider on a regular basis to check for anemia.

How Does Anemia Affect Pregnancy?

If anemia is not treated, it can lead to issues in both the child and the mother. Untreated anemia during pregnancy can result in a higher risk of developing complications such as premature birth, low birth weight, or difficulties during labor.

The baby may also not get sufficient oxygen, which affects the growth of the baby. In the mother, untreated anemia may lead to excessive tiredness, weaken the immune system, or cause difficulty in recovery after delivery.

How Is Anemia Diagnosed in Pregnancy?

Anemia is usually discovered with a blood test during routine prenatal appointments. The test will measure hemoglobin and hematocrit levels, which give an indication of how many healthy red blood cells are in the body. If the levels are lower than normal, the physician will diagnose anemia in the mother and prescribe a treatment regimen.

How Can Anemia During Pregnancy Be Treated?

The main treatment for anemia is making sure the mother gets enough iron, folic acid, and other vital nutrients. This generally means eating foods that are high in iron, including spinach, beans, lentils, red meat, eggs, and cereals that have been iron-fortified.

Doctors also prescribe iron supplements or prenatal vitamins. If the anemia is caused by a lack of vitamin B12, foods like milk, cheese, or fish can help. In severe cases, which are rare, doctors will give iron intravenously or perform other procedures.

Conclusion

Anemia during pregnancy is not uncommon, but with regular check-ups, proper nutrition, and adequate care, it can be treated easily. By eating a well-balanced diet and taking supplements when required, pregnant women can reduce the risks and help the baby develop properly.

Dr. Kailash Mishra
Director & Gastroenterologist Consultant
Prime Gastro Liver Clinic