Short answer
Anaemia means your haemoglobin (Hb) is lower than it should be. It is common in pregnancy, usually because the body needs more iron. It can cause tiredness, breathlessness and pale skin, or no symptoms at all, so Hb is checked early in pregnancy and again around 28 weeks. Treatment is usually iron tablets with iron-rich food.
- Published
- Published by
- Dhruva Hospitals, Kadapa
Why it matters
The WHO estimates that 37% of pregnant women worldwide have anaemia. In pregnancy it is linked to premature birth, low birth weight and greater risk for the mother, so it is worth treating early.
Symptoms
- Tiredness and lack of energy
- Shortness of breath
- Noticeable heartbeats (palpitations)
- Paler skin than usual
- Headaches
- Wanting to eat non-food items such as ice or paper
Tests
A simple blood test (complete blood count) shows your Hb. If the cause is not clear, your doctor may order more tests, because anaemia can also come from low vitamin B12 or folate, or from inherited conditions such as thalassaemia.
Taking iron tablets the right way
- Take them exactly as prescribed, usually for several months.
- Taking them with or soon after food reduces stomach upset.
- A glass of orange juice may help your body absorb the iron.
- Do not take tea, coffee or milk at the same time as the tablet.
- Dark stools and constipation are common side effects. Keep taking the tablets and tell your doctor if they bother you.
- Keep iron tablets out of children’s reach. An overdose can be fatal for a small child.
Iron-rich foods
- Green leafy vegetables, such as spinach (palakura) and amaranth (thotakura)
- Pulses: dal, chana, rajma and other lentils and beans
- Dried fruit such as raisins and apricots
- Meat, chicken and fish, if you eat them
- Iron-fortified cereals
When more treatment is needed
If your Hb does not rise with tablets, or is very low late in pregnancy, your doctor will discuss other treatment, such as iron given through a drip.
Common questions
Can I stop iron tablets once I feel better?
No. Keep taking them for as long as your doctor advises. Your iron stores take months to fill up, even after your Hb improves.
Is anaemia harmful for my baby?
Anaemia in pregnancy is linked to premature birth and low birth weight. Treating it early lowers these risks.
Read next
This article is general information, not a diagnosis or treatment plan. In an emergency, call +91 90368 52311.