Iron deficiency anemia in pregnancy
The pregnant woman supplies the unborn child with blood via the umbilical cord and thus with nutrients and oxygen. For this, more blood and especially red blood cells must be produced in the woman’s body. This requires twice as much iron (30mg/day) as for non-pregnant women (15mg/day).
The blood volume increases by up to 40% during pregnancy. In addition, the work of the heart is increased to pump forward larger amounts of blood per beat, which requires more energy and oxygen. If the pregnant woman’s hemoglobin level is below 11 mgdl, she is in the early stages of anemia.
In addition to the typical symptoms of anemia, the iron and oxygen deficiency has negative effects on the growth of the placenta and the child. The rate of premature births and miscarriages increases. Furthermore, the development of a pregnancy-related disease (gestosis) is promoted.
Iron is also needed for the production of thyroid hormones, which in turn are very important for the brain development of the child. An existing anaemia can also make it more difficult to compensate for increased blood loss during birth and can promote postpartum infections. Therefore, Hb and ferritin control at the beginning of pregnancy is of great importance. An Hb value above 11g/dl is harmless. Below 11g/dl, iron deficiency anemia should be considered and the gynecologist should be consulted about iron supplementation.
Classification of iron deficiency anemia
The classification of anemia is made according to:
- The volume of red blood cells: macrocytic, normocytic, microcytic
- Haemoglobin content (protein that transports oxygen and contains iron): hypochromic, normochromic, hyperchromic
- The cause: blood loss, synthesis disorder, increased breakdown (hemolysis)
- The bone marrow findings
