Anemia and pregnancy: causes, risks, and solutions

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), eight out of ten women suffer from iron deficiency anemia during pregnancy. This condition is associated with a decrease in red blood cell and hemoglobin levels in the blood, which are necessary for supplying oxygen to the tissues of the expectant mother and the developing fetus. Iron deficiency can be asymptomatic or manifest as weakness, fatigue, dizziness, shortness of breath, and paleness of the skin on the hands and the nasolabial triangle, as well as other signs.

Causes and progression of anemia during pregnancy

The primary cause of anemia during pregnancy is the increased need for iron in the body. Furthermore, this deficiency can be exacerbated by insufficient consumption of iron-containing products.

Sometimes, anemia is caused by chronic diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, liver, as well as a lack of vitamins that promote iron absorption. In some cases, a low hemoglobin level is observed before conception, but the woman only learns about it during medical observation by a gynecologist-obstetrician.

Degrees of severity of anemia during pregnancy:

• Light: hemoglobin level of 90 g/l and above;
• Moderate: 71-90 g/l;
• Severe: 70 g/l or less.

What is the danger of anemia during pregnancy?

A reduced hemoglobin level can lead to serious complications for both the mother and the child. The most common risks are:

• premature detachment of the placenta;
• premature delivery;
• delayed intrauterine development of the fetus;
• poor labor.

Moreover, after childbirth, women suffering from anemia have an increased risk of:

• hemorrhage;
• inflammatory complications;
• insufficient production of breast milk.

In addition, iron deficiency anemia can contribute to the development of:

• toxicosis or pregnancy toxemia;
• preeclampsia (edema, high blood pressure).

Newborns whose mothers suffered from anemia are more likely to suffer from viral infections, be more susceptible to pneumonia, and have allergic reactions during the first year of life.

Anemia in different types of pregnancy

The course of pregnancy and metabolic characteristics can vary depending on the method of conception:

• Natural pregnancy occurs without medical intervention. The physiological need for iron increases as the fetus grows and hormonal changes occur gradually.
• IVF (in vitro fertilization) is accompanied by active hormonal support, which can affect metabolism, hematopoiesis, and the vascular system. The likelihood of iron deficiency increases.
• IVF with egg donation requires more intensive hormonal therapy, which can affect the absorption of micronutrients and increase iron needs.
• IVF with double donation (egg and sperm) is accompanied by complete external hormonal regulation at the beginning of pregnancy. This requires particularly careful monitoring of blood counts, including hemoglobin levels.

Regardless of the method of conception, it is important for the expectant mother to undergo regular examinations, monitor her diet, and, if necessary, take iron supplements under a doctor's supervision.

Prevention and correction of anemia during pregnancy

A balanced diet is key to preventing and treating anemia. The diet of a pregnant woman must necessarily include the following:

• boiled meat (including beef);
• beef liver;
• fish;
• eggs;
• cheese;
• stewed vegetables;
• foods rich in protein and calcium;
• fruits or preparations rich in vitamin C such as oranges, rose hip decoction;

In cases of mild or moderate anemia, the doctor prescribes iron preparations, choosing the regimen and dosage individually based on laboratory values. Severe anemias may require treatment in a hospital setting.

Medical support in case of anemia

At the "Natuvitro" clinic, pregnant women can undergo a comprehensive examination, take necessary tests, and receive advice on normalizing hemoglobin levels. Pregnancy management programs are also available at the clinic, which include regular follow-ups with an experienced gynecologist-obstetrician and all necessary diagnostic procedures.