During pregnancy, a woman's blood volume increases by 30 percent or more to support the growing fetus. Consequently, the body requires more iron to create additional hemoglobin, the protein that helps red blood cells carry oxygen to the fetus and throughout the body. Without supplementation, a pregnant woman's iron levels might be rapidly depleted trying to meet these additional needs.
Increased Iron Requirements During Pregnancy
The increased blood supply during pregnancy requires more iron than most women have stored up. In addition, the fetus requires iron for its development. An otherwise healthy woman will be tested at the beginning of her pregnancy and again at the 24-week point to check her iron levels and determine whether they are sufficient to meet the increased needs. The federally established recommended daily allowance of iron for a non-pregnant adult woman is 18 mg per day; this increases to 27 mg during pregnancy. Severe morning sickness or carrying more than one baby can cause the woman to require even higher levels.
Signs of Iron-Deficiency Anemia
Mild to moderate anemia might not cause readily identifiable symptoms. The symptoms that are common, including fatigue, dizziness and shortness of breath, sometimes are attributed to the pregnancy itself, rather than any underlying health condition. Women should be alert to these symptoms, especially if they persist beyond the first trimester. More serious symptoms can include irregular heartbeat, severe headaches, paleness and numbness or coldness in the hands and feet. Pregnant women should contact their doctor promptly if these symptoms occur so that measures can be taken to correct the iron deficiency.
Effects on Mother and Baby
According to the American Academy of Family Physicians, serious iron-deficiency anemia during pregnancy might contribute to premature births or low birth weight in babies. Heavy blood loss during delivery in an anemic woman might require blood transfusions. Serious anemia also might contribute to postpartum depression. In the most extreme cases, babies can be born with anemia-related problems that can delay their growth and mental development.
Preventing Anemia During Pregnancy
Preventing iron deficiency during pregnancy is relatively simple. Iron supplements are the easiest way to ensure a pregnant woman gets the iron she needs. According to the What to Expect site, a daily 30 to 50 mg supplement of iron, in addition to a prenatal vitamin, typically is sufficient. Pregnant woman also can eat more iron-rich foods and foods rich in vitamin C, which helps the body absorb the iron most effectively. According to the March of Dimes, spinach, lean beef, oat bran and dried fruits are good sources of iron during pregnancy.
