When you are pregnant, your body undergoes drastic changes. Among the many changes that happen, your body produces more blood to support the growth of your baby. And for that, it requires more nutrients. However, if you are not getting enough nutrients, your body might not be able to produce the number of red blood cells it needs to make this additional blood. This results in anemia during pregnancy.
Anemia is a condition that develops when your red blood cell count or hemoglobin is less than normal. We take a look at the different types of anemia that happen during pregnancy.
Iron-deficiency anemia
The red blood cells carry oxygen from the lungs to the rest of the body. The body requires iron to produce hemoglobin, the protein that makes up the red blood cells. For some people, the quantity of iron in the body is not sufficient. In people like that the blood cannot carry enough oxygen to the tissues throughout the body. The person feels tired and during pregnancy, these symptoms become more pronounced.
Across the world, Iron deficiency is the most common cause of anemia in pregnancy. However, in India, these figures are at an alarming rate. A majority of women suffer from iron deficiency. Iron deficiency has also led to infant and maternal mortality.
However, that does not mean you have to panic. Your doctor will run the test for anemia as part of your prenatal check-up. If you have a deficiency, they will suggest supplements too.
Folate-deficiency anemia.
Folate is the vitamin found naturally in certain foods like green leafy vegetables. A type of B vitamin, the body needs folate to produce new cells, including healthy red blood cells.
During pregnancy, women need extra folate, which they might not get from their food. This deficiency leads to anemia. The doctors will suggest folic acid supplements to speed up the process. In addition to anemia, folate deficiency also contributes to neural tube abnormalities (spina bifida) and low birth weight.
Vitamin B12 deficiency.
The body needs vitamin B12 to form healthy red blood cells. When a pregnant woman doesn’t get enough vitamin B12 from their diet, their body cannot produce enough healthy red blood cells. Women who do not consume a balanced meal with meat, poultry, dairy products, and eggs have a greater risk of developing vitamin B12 deficiency. If they do not get the required amount of Vitamin B12, birth defects, such as neural tube abnormalities could occur. This might also lead to preterm labor.
The most important factor now boils down to timely diagnosis and treatment during the appropriate time. When you are planning pregnancies, the factors like a balanced meal and adequate exercise plays a vital role. It is also ideal to get all the stipulated tests done on time once you discover that you are pregnant.
At Divakar’s Hospital, our panel of experts will walk you through all the small doubts and concerns you may have. Do get in touch with us for more details.
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