Why is anaemia dangerous in pregnancy

While recent articles generally require a subscriber login, patients interested in viewing an access-controlled article in Blood may obtain a copy by e-mailing a request to the Blood Publishing Office. Agenda for Nematology Research. About Us. Precision Medicine. Genome Editing and Gene Therapy. Immunologic Treatment. Research Support and Funding. Anemia and Pregnancy. Am I at Risk? You are at higher risk for becoming anemic during your pregnancy if you: Have two pregnancies close together Are pregnant with more than one child Are vomiting frequently due to morning sickness Do not consume enough iron Have a heavy pre-pregnancy menstrual flow Many of the symptoms of anemia during pregnancy are also symptoms you may experience even if you are not anemic; these include: Feeling tired or weak Progressive paleness of the skin Rapid heartbeat Shortness of breath Trouble concentrating Doctors typically perform several tests to check the percentage of red blood cells in your plasma and the amount of hemoglobin in your blood.

Is Pregnancy-Related Anemia Preventable? Pregnancy, Birth and Baby is not responsible for the content and advertising on the external website you are now entering. Video call. This information is for your general information and use only and is not intended to be used as medical advice and should not be used to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any medical condition, nor should it be used for therapeutic purposes.

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What are red blood cells? What is anaemia? Mild anaemia is common in pregnancy. If you have mild anaemia, you will feel a little tired. Why do pregnant women become anaemic? What are the tests for anaemia? What are the risks if I am anaemic while pregnant? How can anaemia in pregnancy be avoided? There are 3 good ways to avoid becoming anaemic while pregnant: Start your pregnancy in good health.

Eat well while pregnant. Take iron supplements if needed. Starting pregnancy in good health If you are thinking about becoming pregnant, you should see your doctor and get a check-up. Eating well while pregnant Eating a healthy diet protects against anaemia. Supplements All women will be advised to take iodine and folate supplements when planning a pregnancy and for the first 3 months, as well as eating foods rich in iodine and folate.

Back To Top. Symptoms of anemia during pregnancy can be mild at first and often go unnoticed. However, as it progresses, the symptoms will worsen. It is also important to note that some symptoms can be due to a different cause other than anemia, so talking with your doctor is important.

Some common symptoms of anemia are:. Anemia during pregnancy can easily be treated by adding iron or vitamin supplements to your daily routine. Typically, this is all that is needed to reverse the effects of anemia. However, in very rare cases, women with severe anemia may need a blood transfusion. Talk to your doctor about which supplements might be necessary for you.

Preventing anemia during pregnancy is as easy as changing, or making additions, to your diet. Medical professionals recommend a pregnant woman eat 30 mg at least three servings of iron each day. Examples of iron-rich foods are:. Because it can be a challenge to eat as much iron as is suggested during pregnancy, taking iron supplements is recommended in addition to consuming these foods. Foods that are high in vitamin C can actually help the body absorb more iron, so it is beneficial to make these additions as well.

Vitamin C rich foods include:. After delivery, blood volume and plasma levels are expected to return to normal. This may take care of any anemia concerns that develop later in pregnancy. This should not keep pregnant women from seeking care for anemia during pregnancy. Scott, James et al. Williams Obstetrics Twenty — Second Ed. Cunningham, F. Gary, et al, Ch.

Anemia During Pregnancy. Types of anemia during pregnancy There are over different types of anemia , but some are more prevalent in pregnancy. The most commonly experienced types of anemia during pregnancy are: Iron-deficiency anemia This is the leading cause of anemia in the United States, and consequently, the most common type of anemia during pregnancy.