Iron deficiency in women: importance for conception and pregnancy

To successfully conceive and carry a child, it is important that the concentration of essential micronutrients in a woman's body is normal. In addition to iron, important micronutrients include zinc, magnesium, iodine, and folic acid, which also play a key role in maintaining reproductive health. Iron is one of the most important micronutrients, not only during pregnancy but also during the conception planning phase.

What are the risks of iron deficiency?

The likelihood of becoming pregnant in case of iron deficiency is reduced by 60%. Iron deficiency (iron-deficiency anemia) and infertility are directly linked, as the process of egg maturation and ovulation is disrupted. Furthermore, the lack of this trace element harms the oxygen supply to tissues and cells, negatively affecting ovarian function and leading to a deterioration in egg quality.

Latent iron deficiency is common among women and represents a state in which the hemoglobin level in the blood is normal, but the reserves of this important trace element are already depleted. Hidden iron deficiency is found in 40% of infertile women and can lead to problems during pregnancy, such as anemia, delayed fetal development, premature labor, and complications during delivery. Additionally, the chances of success for IVF in cases of iron deficiency are significantly reduced.

How does iron deficiency manifest?

A doctor may suspect iron-deficiency anemia in a patient who complains of the following symptoms:

Symptoms associated with physical fatigue and general weakness

• Feeling of fatigue and increased tiredness;
• Tachycardia;
• Muscle pain;
• Decreased immunity.

Symptoms related to skin and appearance

• Paleness of the skin;
• Brittle nails, hair loss;
• Skin hypersensitivity.

Gastrointestinal symptoms

• Nausea, heartburn, vomiting.

Other symptoms

• Irritability, difficulties in concentration, memory disturbances;
• Heavy menstruation;
• Pain and swelling in the joints;
• Frequent nosebleeds, bleeding gums.

To rule out iron-deficiency anemia, it is advisable to test serum iron, ferritin, and total iron-binding capacity. If anemia is confirmed, the doctor will prescribe medications to normalize iron levels in the body.

Link between iron deficiency, infertility, and thyroid diseases

Infertility due to anemia may also be associated with thyroid gland dysfunction. In case of difficulties in conceiving a child, it is necessary to consult an endocrinologist, as thyroid function plays an important role in reproductive health.

Statistics on iron deficiencies

According to statistics, nearly 25% of the global population has an iron deficiency. These data are based on studies conducted over the past decades by the World Health Organization (WHO), covering the period up to 2020. Among women, iron-deficiency anemia is 6 times more common than among men. This is explained by physiological factors such as menstruation, pregnancy, and breastfeeding, which increase iron needs.

For pregnant women, it is extremely important to monitor their health status and consult a doctor in case of alarming symptoms indicating a possible iron deficiency. Timely detection and treatment of iron-deficiency anemia will help ensure the health of both the mother and the unborn child. 

For more information on in vitro fertilization (IVF), see the section on treatments.