Signs & Symptoms of Iron Deficiency in Pregnancy

According to the Mayo Clinic, up to 50 percent of pregnant women in the United States have an iron deficiency. That's why doctors typically test pregnant women twice for iron deficiency anemia. Luckily, iron deficiency is preventable and the signs and symptoms are treatable with the right supplements and diet.

Transporting Oxygen

The body requires extra iron during pregnancy to support mother and child. Red blood cells need iron to transport oxygen.

Fatigue

Fatigue is the most common symptom of iron deficiency anemia. This occurs because the red blood cells don't contain a sufficient amount of hemoglobin, the protein responsible for delivering oxygen. The lack of oxygen may also cause pale skin and shortness of breath.

Pica

Pregnant women with iron deficiency anemia sometimes develop pica. This is a craving for items that aren't food like ice and dirt.

Coldness

Iron deficiency anemia may also cause pregnant women to feel colder than normal. Iron deficiency may impair temperature regulation in the body.

Considerations

Iron deficiency may cause women to go into preterm labor or deliver children with lower than normal birthweight.

References

• Anemia During Pregnancy - March of Dimes
• Iron-Deficiency Anemia - All Sections (printer-friendly)
• Treatment of Iron Deficiency Anemia at Mayo Clinic