Low Iron Levels In Pregnancy Symptoms
A low iron level also called iron deficiency is the cause of most cases of anemia during pregnancy.
Low iron levels in pregnancy symptoms. Iron deficiency anaemia is caused by lack of iron often because of blood loss or pregnancy. In iron deficiency anemia the blood cannot carry enough oxygen to tissues throughout the body. Pale skin and pale coloring of the inside of the lower eyelids are other common signs of iron deficiency 5 6 7 the hemoglobin in red blood cells gives blood its red color so low levels during. A low ferritin level in the blood may indicate iron deficiency or iron deficiency anemia that can cause various symptoms like fatigue.
The level of ferritin in the blood can be low even if the hemoglobin and iron levels are normal. During pregnancy you need 27 milligrams of iron a day. A cbc test is often performed as part of a routine physical examination. Iron has an essential role in the formation of new red blood cells which contain hemoglobin the iron rich protein that gives blood its red color.
How iron delivers oxygen to you and your baby. Also rbcs are usually smaller in size than normal. A ferritin blood test shows the amount of ferritin in the body. Check if you have iron deficiency anaemia.
Noticeable heartbeats heart palpitations pale skin. Iron deficiency is the most common cause of anemia in pregnancy. These symptoms include nausea forgetfulness an inflamed tongue and heart palpitations. In iron deficiency anemia the hematocrit and hemoglobin levels are low.
But research also suggests that mild iron deficiency anemia that goes untreated and becomes more severe during pregnancy especially in the first two trimesters is linked to an increased risk of a baby being born with a low birth weight. In pregnant women severe iron deficiency anemia has been linked to premature births and low birth weight babies. But the condition is preventable in pregnant women who receive iron supplements as part of their prenatal care. In some cases especially when iron levels become severely low additional symptoms of anemia may develop.
Taking a prenatal vitamin that contains iron can help prevent and treat iron deficiency anemia during pregnancy. In some cases your health care provider might recommend a separate iron supplement. Tiredness and lack of energy.