Anemia During Pregnancy: Tips for a Healthy Journey

When your body doesn’t have enough healthy red blood cells to carry enough oxygen to the tissues, that condition is called anaemia. Many organs and functions suffer when tissues do not receive enough oxygen. Anaemia is especially concerning during pregnancy since it is associated with low birth weight, premature delivery, and maternal mortality.

Pregnant women are at a higher risk of having anaemia due to the excess amount of blood produced by the body to assist give nutrition to the baby.

Anaemia can be caused by a nutrient deficiency, such as a lack of iron, vitamin B12, or folic acid, or by an increase in the body’s red blood cell turnover, by an increase in the number of red blood cells being destroyed, or by a decrease in the number of red blood cells being produced.

 

Symptoms of Anemia During Pregnancy

Anaemia symptoms in pregnancy might be mild at first and sometimes go undetected. Some common symptoms of Anemia in pregnancy are as follows-

• Fatigue and weakness
• Pale skin and nails
• Shortness of breath
• Rapid heartbeat
• Dizziness
• Cold hands and feet
• Difficulty concentrating

Causes of Anemia in Pregnancy

Anaemia in pregnancy can be caused by various reasons. Here are some common causes of anaemia during pregnancy:

1. Iron deficiency: Iron deficiency Anemia in pregnancy is the most prevalent type of anemia in pregnancy. During pregnancy, the body requires more iron to support the increased production of red blood cells for both the mother and the growing foetus. If the dietary intake of iron is insufficient or if there are issues with iron absorption, it can lead to iron deficiency anaemia during pregnancy.
2. Folate deficiency: Folate is required to produce red blood cells. Inadequate folate consumption or a problem with folate absorption can result in folate deficiency Anemia.
3. Vitamin B12 deficiency: Vitamin B12 is essential for the proper functioning of red blood cells. A lack of this vitamin can cause megaloblastic anaemia. Vegans, vegetarians, and people with specific gastrointestinal diseases are at higher risk of vitamin B12 deficiency.
4. Chronic diseases: Some chronic conditions like kidney disease, autoimmune disorders, inflammatory bowel disease, and certain types of cancer can increase the risk of anaemia during pregnancy.
5. Multiple pregnancies: Women carrying multiple foetuses, such as twins or triplets, have a higher risk of developing anemia in pregnancy due to the increased demand for nutrients and blood supply.
6. Poor diet: A diet lacking essential nutrients, including iron and other vitamins necessary for red blood cell production, can contribute to anemia during pregnancy.
7. Blood loss: Excessive bleeding during pregnancy, such as from a miscarriage, ectopic pregnancy, or complications during childbirth, can lead to anaemia in pregnancy.
8. Pre-existing anaemic conditions: Women who had anaemia before pregnancy or have a history of anaemia may be more susceptible to developing anemia in pregnancy.

It’s important to note that the causes of anaemia during pregnancy can vary from person to person. If you suspect you have anaemia or are experiencing symptoms, it’s crucial to consult with your healthcare provider for a proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment. They can conduct the necessary tests and provide personalized advice to manage and prevent anemia in pregnancy.

Risks of Anemia During Pregnancy

The risk of developing severe iron deficiency anemia during pregnancy can be higher due to the following reasons-

• Low birth weight of the newborn baby
• Anaemic baby.
• Postpartum Depression in pregnant women
• Multiple pregnancies or two closer pregnancies
• Heavy blood flow during periods
• Less iron intake in the diet

Preventive measures for prevalent Anemias during pregnancy

Preventing anaemia and managing it effectively is crucial for the well-being of both the mother and the baby. Here are some preventive measures:

1. Prenatal care: Regular prenatal check-ups are vital for the early detection and management of anaemia. Your healthcare provider will monitor your blood levels and provide appropriate interventions if necessary.
2. Iron-rich diet: Consuming a well-balanced diet that includes iron-rich foods is key. Lean red meat, poultry, fish, legumes, dark leafy greens, fortified cereals, and dried fruits are excellent sources of iron. Including iron-rich foods with vitamin C sources help in enhancing iron absorption.
3. Iron supplementation: Pregnant women are recommended about 27 milligrams of iron intake every day. However, the supplement dose may vary from woman to woman, depending upon other factors like diet, body metabolism, and type of iron or iron supplement consumed. If dietary iron is insufficient, your healthcare provider may recommend iron supplements. It’s important to follow the prescribed dosage and consult with your healthcare provider before starting any supplements.
4. Folic acid supplementation: Folic acid helps in the production of red blood cells. Pregnant women are often advised to take folic acid supplements to prevent folate deficiency anaemia.

Prevent Anemia with Trimacare – Best Multivitamin Tablets for Women in India

To prevent anaemia during pregnancy, the World Health Organization (WHO) advises pregnant women to take 30 mg-60mg of iron daily. Iron can be obtained from iron-rich food sources such as leafy green vegetables, grains, and others. However, if a pregnant woman has already developed anaemia, her doctor can advise giving her a higher dose of iron 60 mg or more in the form of ferrous fumarate or ferric ascorbate, which can be taken orally. This is to ensure that the woman and her unborn child receive enough iron to maintain healthy blood cells and prevent anaemia from deteriorating.

Trimacare prenatal tablets are pregnancy supplements created by PlusPlus Lifesciences and formulated according to the needs of Indian pregnant women. Trimacare pregnancy multivitamins are available in three different packs for three trimesters of pregnancy (patented).

Trimacare 2 and Trimacare 3 prenatal pills packets contain 60mg of unique time-release iron for better absorption, while also preventing gastro-intestinal side effects.

Preventing anaemia is a significant step toward a healthy pregnancy. When you’re pregnant you can’t ignore these essential nutrients. Follow a balanced diet, take prenatal vitamins, and consult your doctor if you experience any symptoms of anaemia.

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. What are the common symptoms of anaemia during pregnancy?

Fatigue, weakness, pale skin, shortness of breath, dizziness, and rapid heartbeat are all common signs of anaemia during pregnancy.

2. How can anaemia during pregnancy affect the baby?

Iron deficiency during pregnancy can influence the child by expanding the gamble of preterm birth, low birth weight, and formative deferrals.

3. What dietary changes can help prevent or manage anaemia during pregnancy?

Consuming foods high in iron, such as spinach, fortified cereals, lean meats, poultry, fish, beans, lentils, and fish, is essential for managing anaemia during pregnancy. Iron absorption can be improved by combining these foods with vitamin C-rich foods like bell peppers or citrus fruits.

4. Is it safe to take iron supplements during pregnancy?

Yes, taking iron supplements while pregnant is generally safe, particularly when advised by a medical professional. Iron enhancements can assist with meeting the expanded iron requirements during pregnancy and forestall or treat frailty.

5. How often should pregnant women get tested for anaemia?

As recommended by their healthcare provider, pregnant women should typically have their anaemia tested during their first prenatal visit and on a regular basis throughout their pregnancy. Individual risk factors and medical history may affect this frequency.