Anemia is when your blood has too few red blood cells. Having too few red blood cells makes it harder for your blood to carry oxygen or iron. This can affect how cells work in nerves and muscles. During pregnancy, your baby also needs your blood. Show
Who is at risk for anemia during pregnancy?Women are more likely to get anemia during pregnancy if they:
Women are more likely to get iron-deficiency anemia in pregnancy if they:
What causes anemia during pregnancy?You can get several kinds of anemia during pregnancy. The cause varies based on the type.
What are the symptoms of anemia during pregnancy?You may not have clear symptoms of anemia during pregnancy unless your cell counts are very low. Symptoms may include:
The symptoms of anemia can be like other health conditions. Always see your healthcare provider for a diagnosis. How is anemia during pregnancy diagnosed?Your healthcare provider will check for anemia during your prenatal exams. It's usually found during a routine blood test. Other ways to check for anemia may include other blood tests such as:
How is anemia during pregnancy treated?Treatment will depend on your symptoms, age, and general health. It will also depend on how severe the condition is. Treatment for iron deficiency anemia includes taking iron supplements. Some forms are time-released. Others must be taken several times each day. Taking iron with a citrus juice, such as orange, can help your body absorb it better. Taking antacids may make it harder for your body absorb to iron. Iron supplements may cause nausea and cause stools to become dark greenish or black in color. They may also cause constipation. What are possible complications of anemia during pregnancy?If you have anemia during pregnancy, your baby may not grow to a healthy weight, may arrive early (preterm birth), or have a low birth weight. Also being very tired may keep you from recovering as quickly after birth. Can anemia during pregnancy be prevented?Good nutrition before pregnancy not only helps prevent anemia, but it also helps build other nutritional stores in your body. Eating a healthy, balanced diet before and during pregnancy helps keep up your levels of iron and other important nutrients needed for your growing baby. Good food sources of iron include:
Experts recommend all women of childbearing age and all women who are pregnant take vitamin supplements with at least 400 micrograms of folic acid. Folate is the form of folic acid found in food. Good sources are:
Key points about anemia in pregnancy
Next stepsTips to help you get the most from a visit to your healthcare provider:
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