What are the signs of iron deficiency?
The first signs of iron deficiency are often difficult to distinguish from general changes in pregnancy. Most complaints are caused by the fact that less blood pigment can be produced. This is normally responsible for the transport of oxygen in the blood.
So if it is restricted by an iron deficiency, many functions of the body can be impaired. A first sign of an iron deficiency is a paleness of the skin and also of the mucous membranes. This paleness can be particularly noticeable in the color of the oral mucosa.
Furthermore, so-called mouth corner rhagades can develop. These are small tears at the corners of the mouth, which can be painful. They can also be signs of other deficiency symptoms.
Another sign is increasing tiredness and a decrease in performance. To a certain extent this is normal during pregnancy. However, if a significant drop in performance is noticed, an iron deficiency should be clarified. Stress is perceived as very strenuous and breathing difficulties and shortness of breath occur more quickly.
What are the consequences of iron deficiency during pregnancy?
With a slight iron deficiency, there is only a small risk for the unborn child, as the mother’s body is designed to supply the baby with nutrients first and then itself.Thus one finds with easy iron deficiency of the nut/mother first still no lack symptoms with the baby. This situation can only change with a pronounced iron deficiency. It is proven that an iron deficiency increases the risk of miscarriage and premature birth.
Among other things, iron plays an important role in the immune system‘s defence against pathogens. Therefore, an iron deficiency can result in an increased susceptibility to infections. The mother is more likely to catch a cold or can get infections in the genital area more frequently.
It is important to know that some infections, such as rubella in pregnancy, can have devastating consequences for the development of the child. Another consequence of iron deficiency can be a reduction in the mother’s performance, often accompanied by breathing difficulties and palpitations. On the child’s side, a persistent iron deficiency can lead to impairments in development.
This can lead to disturbances in the growth of the child’s body. In addition, a consequence of iron deficiency can be a restriction of the child’s brain activity. Severe complications such as the frequent occurrence of pregnancy poisoning (gestosis) and inflammation of the kidneys can be a consequence. These are very dangerous for the pregnant woman and for the child. In addition, blood loss is to be expected during childbirth, which pregnant women with anemia can compensate for more poorly, which can have life-threatening consequences.
