Causes, Signs & Symptoms of Low Iron During Pregnancy

Low iron during pregnancy can be a detrimental factor as it is a very important element in keeping the hemoglobin count right to meet the needs of pregnancy. Low iron during pregnancy causes iron deficiency anemia and iron is the chief component of hemoglobin. Women often have low levels of iron as they lose blood through menstruation and the body gets depleted of its iron sources. Low iron during pregnancy causes could include nausea and vomiting and loss of appetite. Inability to meet the needs of the fast growing baby could also result in low iron levels. As the requirement of iron goes up during pregnancy, it is imperative...


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...that you maintain the iron levels in the body. Iron is important for the growth of the baby and placenta. It is better to take iron supplements or iron rich foods prior to pregnancy, because if the levels are too low in the later stages of pregnancy, it can get very difficult to raise hemoglobin count instantly. Low iron during pregnancy means that along with iron, a whole range of minerals also get low, such as magnesium, copper, selenium, folic acid, calcium, chromium, and zinc. Low iron during pregnancy symptoms include anemia, headaches, migraine, fatigue, uterine and leg cramps, heart palpitation, gestational diabetes, and high blood pressure. This makes the intake of iron and prenatal vitamins important. In some, the craving to eat ice, hair loss, muscle aches, dizziness, pale skin, feeling cold in the feet and hands, and ringing in the ears could be some of the signs and symptoms of low iron during pregnancy.

Do not neglect the signs and symptoms as part of being pregnant, as very low iron during pregnancy can have adverse effects. Some of these effects could be spontaneous abortion, premature birth, lower level of amniotic fluid, low birth weight, and fetal death. To counter low iron during pregnancy eat vegetables and fruits that contain vitamin C like melons, oranges, raspberries, strawberries, blueberries, pears, peaches, cantaloupe, broccoli, green peppers, and sweet potatoes. Also include iron rich foods like red meat, egg yolks, liver, and cereals fortified with iron in your diet. Avoid tea as it contains tannin, which inhibits iron absorption. Continue with prenatal vitamins and iron supplements.

Be sure to recognize low iron during pregnancy at early stages as your body needs time to assimilate iron in the body to meet the needs of the growing baby and yourself. Do not strain yourself by worrying, eat a proper diet, ensure that you take your supplements, exercise moderately, and always consult with your doctor.

Low Iron During Pregnancy
Low Iron During Pregnancy
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