Anemia is one of the possible health challenges that a woman has to face especially during pregnancy. Women are more susceptible to anemia than in men as they experience monthly blood loss, not to mention the increase in the demand of blood supply for the development of the baby during pregnancy period. If you are pregnant and you are worried on the fetal problems that may rise from anemia, you should read on and learn more about this.
There are several types of anemia and the most common that a pregnant woman experiences is iron deficiency anemia. This type of anemia happens when there is lack of iron in the blood that results into less production of hemoglobin. Hemoglobin is responsible in delivering oxygen to several organs of the body. With oxygen lacking, this can manifest into dizziness, fatigue, pale skin, labored breathing and rapid heartbeat.
If you are pregnant and have anemia, your child faces risks of low birth weight, preterm birth and poor fetal growth. Low birth weight and poor fetal growth is a result of poor development while inside the womb due to insufficient nutrition.
Iron deficiency anemia however is treatable. With proper nutrition and iron supplementation, it can be reverse but not the effects it has made to the baby’s development. Eating leafy green vegetables (broccoli, spinach), eggs, red meat, liver, dried beans or tofu, and iron-fortified bread, pasta, and cereal are good sources of iron to avoid anemia.
When you manifest the symptoms of anemia, it is better that you seek advice from your doctor than taking iron supplements directly. Taking iron supplements can have side effects like LBM or constipation so it is better that you take medical advice. Moreover, you will be diagnosed according to your family medical history, that of yours and laboratory tests will be taken.
Anemia during pregnancy is a health challenge that you should face and should not worry about as it is common among pregnant women and is treatable. Eat nutritious foods and balance diet for a healthy pregnancy.
Riza C. Belgira is health enthusiast and an advocate of strengthening women’s health and well-being through informative health resources and articles.
Visit her web site and explore informative and useful tips on 4d scans, pregnancy, dieting and weight loss at http://www.4d-ultrasoundscan.co.uk/.
