Understanding Anemia in Pregnancy: Causes and Management
Why is Anemia Common During Pregnancy?
Anemia refers to a decrease in red blood cells in the body. Anemia is one of the most common types in Pregnancy. One of the most common pregnancy-related issues is anaemia. Haemoglobin (Hb) is affected by regular physiological changes during Pregnancy, and the concentration of Hb is reduced either entirely or partially. Iron deficiency anaemia (about 75%) and folate deficiency megaloblastic anaemia (about 85%) are the most common anaemias during Pregnancy. These conditions are more common in women with poor diets and in those who do not receive prenatal iron and folate supplementation. Both the mother and the foetus may suffer from severe anaemia.
What Causes Anemia in Pregnancy? Explore the Factors Behind it!
There are several causes leading to anemia in Pregnancy
- Poor Nutrition: Poor Dietary habits and inadequate or no intake of essential Nutrients like iron, folic acid, and vit b12 can lead to anemia
- Gastrointestinal Disorders: Underlying gastrointestinal conditions like inflammatory bowel disease can lead to anemia
- Excess blood loss: Excess loss of blood from the body which may occur due to placental Abnormalities, miscarriages, or other complications
- Chronic diseases: Conditions like chronic kidney disease, inflammatory disease and autoimmune conditions may also lead to anemia
- Multiple Pregnancies: Women who are carrying twins or triplets will be at high risk of developing anemia Less Gap Between Two Pregnancies: Women who become pregnant within less time after one Pregnancy are also at a higher risk of developing anemia.
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Get A Second OpinionWhat Are the Leading Causes of Anemia in Pregnancy and Their Effects?
The Most Common cause of anemia in Pregnancy is a lack of iron, vitamin B12, and folate.
- Folate Deficiency anemia: Women who have less folic acid in the body will affect the fetus with average growth and cell division, leading to birth abnormality
- Iron deficiency anemia: A Woman’s iron need is generally increased during Pregnancy. Decreased levels of iron in the body cause complications in childbirth, leading to low birth weight babies, Preeclampsia(Sudden rise in Blood pressure in Pregnancy), and Premature birth.
- Vitamin B12 Deficiency: This is also called pernicious anemia. This is the most common type of anemia and deficiency in Pregnancy can lead to loss of physical coordination(ataxia), parts of nerve damage (Peripheral Neuropathy)
How Can You Detect Anemia in Pregnancy? Look Out for These Signs and Symptoms!
Watch out for the below signs and symptoms to detect anemia in Pregnancy
- Dizziness
- Generalized weakness
- Tiredness
- Pale Skin
- Cold hands and feet
- Chest pain
- Chewing Ice
- Irregular Heartbeat
What are the Severity Levels of Anemia During Pregnancy Based on Hemoglobin Levels?
Anemia during Pregnancy is classified into three levels of severity based on haemoglobin levels:
- Mild anemia: 9–10.9 g/dL
- Moderate anemia: 7–8.9 g/dL
- Severe anemia: Less than seven g/Dl
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Book an AppointmentWhat are the Treatment Options for Anemia Based on Severity?
The treatment options for anemia are based on the grading and severity
In mild to Moderate patients, the following are generally prescribed:-
- Iron Supplements: Iron deficiency is one of the main causes of anemia during Pregnancy. To raise your iron levels, your doctor may prescribe iron supplements.
- Nutrition Improvements: Consume foods high in iron, such as fish, poultry, red meat, beans, lentils, fortified cereals, and leafy green vegetables. Iron absorption can be improved by combining these diets with foods high in vitamin C, such as citrus fruits.
- Vitamin B12 Supplements: Supplements may be recommended if a vitamin B12 deficiency causes anemia.
- Supplements with Folic Acid: Folic acid is essential for the synthesis of red blood cells. Your doctor might suggest folic acid supplements in addition to iron.
In Severe Cases,
- Intravenous Iron Therapy: This treatment option may be suggested in severe cases or when oral supplements are not well tolerated.
- Blood Transfusion: To quickly replenish red blood cells, a blood transfusion may be required in the most severe forms of anaemia.
What Foods Should Pregnant Women Eat to Boost Iron, Vitamin B12, and Folic Acid Levels?
Pregnant women should consume foods that are rich in iron, vitamin b12 and folic acid, like Leafy vegetables, lean meat and poultry, fortified cereals, and Fruits such as strawberries, oranges and berries. Avoid having tea, coffee, and calcium supplements, as these foods will cause a decrease in iron absorption.
Use of Supplements :Women are recommended to take iron and folic acid supplements in the early stages of Pregnancy or just before starting conception.
How Can I Maintain a Healthy Pregnancy Lifestyle?
- Lifestyle: Scheduled Prenatal Care: Monitor your health throughout all prenatal visits, including measuring your haemoglobin levels to identify anaemia in early Pregnancy.
- Keep Hydrated: Constipation is a common side effect of iron supplements. Drink lots of water to help prevent it.
- Handling Morning Sickness: If you experience morning sickness, consult your doctor for optimal management. Severe nausea and vomiting might impact nutrient intake.
- Exercise: As advised by your doctor, take frequent, moderate exercise to enhance circulation and general health.
Dealing with anemia during pregnancy is all about catching it early, getting the proper treatment, and taking care of yourself. By staying on top of it, moms-to-be can keep themselves and their little ones healthy and happy throughout the pregnancy journey.