Pregnancy is an exciting time in a woman's life, but it also brings about significant changes in the body. As a woman navigates through this beautiful yet demanding journey, her body must adapt to support both her and her baby. One of the most common health challenges women face during pregnancy is anaemia, a disease that occurs when there is a deficiency of red blood cells or haemoglobin in the blood. Ensuring optimal women's health during pregnancy is essential to manage such conditions and maintain the well-being of both mother and baby.

While it may seem like a minor concern, anaemia in pregnancy can have serious implications for both the mother and the baby. Early detection and effective management are important to ensure a healthy pregnancy outcome.

What causes anaemia in pregnancy?

Anaemia is a common condition during pregnancy, with over 40% of pregnant women worldwide affected, according to the World Health Organization. The increased blood volume during pregnancy places additional demands on a woman's iron stores, which can lead to anaemia if not properly managed. Iron's Role in Pregnancy:

  • Crucial for haemoglobin formation: Iron is vital for the production of hemoglobin, the protein in red blood cells (RBCs) responsible for carrying oxygen throughout the body.
  • Increased demand during pregnancy: Pregnancy increases iron requirements due to the growing fetus and the expanded blood volume.
  • Potential consequences of deficiency: Without enough iron, women may experience fatigue, dizziness, and other symptoms, which can affect daily functioning.

What are the signs of iron deficiency during pregnancy?

Identifying the signs of iron deficiency early is essential to avoid complications. The symptoms of anaemia in pregnancy can differ from woman to woman, but common signs include:

  • Fatigue and weakness: One of the most common symptoms of anaemia, fatigue can make it difficult for expectant mothers to carry out daily tasks.
  • Paleness of skin and mucous membranes: anaemia can cause a noticeable reduction in the colour of the skin, often appearing paler than usual.
  • Shortness of breath and rapid heartbeat: When the body struggles to supply oxygen due to low haemoglobin, it compensates by increasing the heart rate, which may lead to shortness of breath.
  • Headaches and dizziness: Reduced oxygen supply to the brain can cause frequent headaches and dizziness, especially during physical exertion.
  • Cold hands and feet: Poor circulation due to low iron levels can result in extremities feeling cold, even in warmer environments.
  • Cravings for non-food items: A condition known as pica, where women may crave non-food substances such as clay or dirt, is another indicator of iron deficiency.

What are the causes of iron deficiency anaemia?

Iron deficiency anaemia is primarily caused by a lack of adequate iron intake, but several factors can contribute to this condition, especially during pregnancy. Some of the key causes include:

  1. Increased iron demand: The body's iron requirements increase during pregnancy, especially in the second and third trimesters when the fetus is developing rapidly. Without sufficient dietary intake, this increased demand can lead to anaemia.
  2. Poor diet: A diet low in iron-rich foods, such as poultry, red meat, legumes, and leafy green veggies, can lead to a deficiency.
  3. Blood loss: Some women may experience heavy bleeding during menstruation or other health conditions, such as gastrointestinal bleeding, which can deplete iron stores.
  4. Malabsorption: Conditions like celiac disease or gastrointestinal surgeries can impair the body's ability to absorb iron from food, contributing to anaemia.
  5. Multiple pregnancies: Women who have frequent pregnancies may have depleted iron stores, making them more susceptible to anaemia.

What are the ways to prevent and manage iron deficiency anaemia?

Given the critical role iron plays in both the mother's health and the development of the baby, managing iron deficiency anaemia is vital for a healthy pregnancy. Here are some essential steps for prevention and treatment:

  1. Adequate iron intake

Pregnant women should aim to consume at least 27 milligrams of iron per day. This can be accomplished through a diet rich in iron-rich foods. Good dietary sources of iron include:

  • Red meat (beef, lamb)
  • Poultry (chicken, turkey)
  • Fish and seafood
  • Leafy greens (spinach, kale)
  • Legumes (lentils, beans)
  • Nuts and seeds
  • Iron-fortified cereals

To boost iron absorption, it is helpful to incorporate iron-rich foods with sources of vitamin C (such as citrus fruits, bell peppers, or tomatoes) as vitamin C enhances iron absorption.

  1. Iron supplements

In some cases, dietary intake alone may not meet the advanced iron needs during pregnancy, and supplements are required. Here are some iron supplement options:

  • Isoneph Injection: Contains Iron(III)isomaltoside, beneficial for women who struggle with oral supplements or have severe iron deficiency anaemia.
  • Encicarb 500 mg: Contains Ferric Carboxymaltose, intravenous therapy for more severe cases, delivering iron directly into the bloodstream.

Always follow a healthcare provider's guidance for iron supplementation, as excessive iron can lead to side effects like constipation or nausea.

  1. Regular monitoring

Expectant mothers should have regular blood tests to monitor their iron levels. These tests help ensure that iron deficiency is detected early and managed appropriately. Monitoring also allows healthcare providers to adjust treatment plans based on how the body is responding to supplementation.

What happens if anaemia goes untreated in pregnancy?

When iron deficiency anaemia is left untreated, it can pose serious risks to both the mother and the baby. For the mother, the risks may include:

  • Increased fatigue: Severe anaemia can leave women feeling constantly exhausted, which affects daily activities and quality of life.
  • Increased risk of infection: Low iron levels weaken the immune system, making the body more susceptible to infections.
  • Postpartum complications: anaemia can increase the likelihood of complications during delivery, such as heavy blood loss.

For the baby, untreated anaemia can result in:

  • Preterm birth: Anaemia is associated with an increased risk of premature delivery, which can lead to low birth weight and other complications.
  • Low birth weight: Babies born to mothers with iron deficiency anaemia are more likely to have a low birth weight, which can affect their development.
  • Delayed cognitive development: Severe anaemia in pregnancy may negatively impact the baby's cognitive function and overall development.

Wrapping up

Anaemia during pregnancy is a serious health concern that requires careful management. Pregnant women should monitor their iron intake to stay healthy and support their baby's development. A diet rich in iron, along with supplements if needed, can help decrease the risk of iron deficiency anaemia and prevent complications.

Early intervention and proper treatment are important to a smooth pregnancy. Understanding the signs, causes, and management of iron deficiency ensures a healthier pregnancy for both mother and baby.