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Pregnancy Health -
Questions
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Pregnancy And Anemia.My doctor says I have anemia now that I'm pregnant. What is it?
Anemia is a common medical problem in many pregnant women. The number of red blood cells in your blood is low; the quantity of these cells is inadequate to provide the oxygen your body needs.
Why does anemia occur so often in pregnancy?
Your blood volume increases up to 50% during pregnancy. Blood is made up of fluid and cells. The fluid usually increases faster than the cells. This may result in a drop in your hematocrit (the volume, amount or percent of red cells in the blood). This drop can result in anemia. Why is it important to treat anemia during pregnancy?
If you suffer from anemia, you won't feel well during pregnancy and you'll tire more easily. You may also experience dizziness. If you're anemic when you go into labor, you're at higher risk of needing a blood transfusion when your baby is born. Pregnancy anemia can cause an increased risk of preterm delivery, growth restriction in the baby and low birth weight. Your doctor will determine if you are anemic and prescribe a course of treatment for you.
What is the most common type of anemia during pregnancy?
The most common type is iron-deficiency anemia. While you're pregnant, your baby uses some of your iron stores. With iron-deficiency anemia, your body does not make enough red blood cells to keep up with the increased demand.
What causes iron-deficiency anemia?
Several factors can cause this condition: - bleeding during pregnancy
- multiple fetuses
- recent surgery on your stomach or small bowel
- frequent antacid use
- poor dietary habits
Is iron-deficiency anemia easy to control?
Yes, it usually is. Most prenatal vitamins contain iron; if you can't take a prenatal vitamin, you may be given iron supplementation, t-ating certain foods, such as liver or spinach, also helps increase Your iron intake.
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