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When a woman’s body requires more iron than is available, iron deficiency anemia can occur during pregnancy. While mild anemia is common during pregnancy due to an increase in blood volume, more severe anemia may put the baby at a higher risk for anemia later in infancy.

During pregnancy, a woman’s body produces more blood to support the growth of the baby. When she is not getting enough iron or certain nutrients, the body may not be able to produce the new red blood cells it needs to make this additional blood. This can leave the mother feeling tired and weak and can cause serious complications if left untreated. Severe or untreated iron deficiency anemia during pregnancy can increase the risk of preterm or low birthweight infants, blood transfusion during delivery, and postpartum depression.

Therefore, it’s highly important to (at least twice during pregnancy) have your labs done for anemia and treat it appropriately. A proper diet rich in iron nutrients is important from the beginning of pregnancy, and this may include extra supplementation of iron pills and/or intravenous iron medication, depending on the severity of the condition and the time it is discovered during pregnancy.

For more information regarding anemia in pregnancy or to schedule an appointment, contact MFM Associates today.

Maternal Fetal Medicine blogs are intended for educational purposes only and do not replace certified professional care. Medical conditions vary and change frequently. Please ask your doctor any questions you may have regarding your condition to receive a proper diagnosis or risk analysis. Thank you!