Weakness and paleness may seem normal during pregnancy but it can also be anaemia! Do not ignore the warning signs, know more…
One of the most common complications during pregnancy is anaemia. In pregnancy, your body produces extra blood at about the 6th week to support the growth and development of the unborn baby. If the demand for iron is not met through diet the body fails to produce enough blood. This leads to the development of anaemia, which is directly associated with low levels of haemoglobin.
It is normal to have mild anaemia during pregnancy, but there is a chance of developing severe anaemia due to low intake of iron, folic acid and other vital vitamins. In India, 74 per cent of pregnant women suffer from anaemia.
Here’s what you need to know about Anemia during Pregnancy –
Causes of anaemia during pregnancy
- Consuming an iron-deficient diet
- Heavy pre-pregnancy menstrual flow
- History of anaemia before pregnancy
- Vomiting frequently
- Less gap between two pregnancies
- Conceiving twins
- Blood cell disorders
Anaemia leaves you with…
- Lethargy
- Weakness
- Pale or yellowish skin
- Irregular heartbeats
- Shortness of breath
- Dizziness
Risks of conceiving with anaemia
- Premature birth or low birth weight
- Congenital anaemia
- Serious birth defects like Neural Tube Defects
- Developmental delays in baby
- Postpartum depression
Manage it right!
Timely blood tests like complete blood count, checking for levels of haemoglobin, iron, folate, vitamin B12, etc., especially during pregnancy helps in preventing anaemia. Also, consuming foods rich in iron and vitamin content allows keeping a check on anaemia before it makes an unannounced arrival!
No Comments