Anemia during Pregnancy

During pregnancy total blood volume shoots up by about 45 percent and as a result of the dilution of the blood, ordinary technique of blood examination will show anemia. During pregnancy a woman saves about 25mg of iron since she no longer loses blood in menstrual periods. The foetus requires 400 mg of iron, the placenta 150 mg and lactation 300 mg. Thus the requirement of iron is more than what she saves. Poor dietary intake, worm infestation, chronic infections like TB can also cause anemia. Anemia in pregnancy causes vague but widespread manifestations like pallor of skin, nail and conjunctiva. There is loss of appetite, giddiness and insomnia. She gets tired easily and has a feeling of being unwell. She may become conscious of heartbeat which may become quite fast. Nails may become brittle and flattened. In advanced cases she may experience breathlessness, swelling of feet, red and swollen tongue, and difficulty in swallowing. Anemia may have adverse effect not only on the mother but also on the child. It can cause low birth weight in infants. If you have not yet had a checkup go to your doctor immediately and get your blood and stools tested. Cooperate with your doctor and follow his advice properly. Take the medicines prescribed by him regularly. Remember “Prevention is better than cure”.