Anemia & Pregnancy - How Can Former Affect Latter?

Anemia refers to a medical problem which is characterized by a lack of red blood cells that carries oxygen to the different body parts in the body. This condition can cause many adverse effects on the functioning of tissues and organs because of the insufficient oxygen reaching to them. But anemia during pregnancy can lead to many serious problems such as reduced birth weight, premature baby.

Anemia is a condition which can be easily treated once diagnosed and helps in having healthy motherhood.

Anemia in pregnancy is very common due to the fact that red blood cells are produced in more number because of the supply of nutrients to the growing baby. If this condition can be detected early by the gynaecologist, then it can be easily treated. But if this condition goes untreated, then it can cause bad health conditions to the mother as well as the baby.

The researchers have found that there are around 400 different types of anemia that can be caused during pregnancy but the three major forms of anemia during pregnancy are:

• Iron deficiency anemia: It is the most common form of anemia in which there is an iron deficiency during pregnancy. The iron is an essential micronutrient that is responsible for carrying oxygen to the different cells and tissues from the lungs. Also, iron helps in storing oxygen in muscles and using it whenever required.
• Folate deficiency anemia: Folic acid is a very essential vitamin which helps in preventing any defects in the formation of the neural tube during pregnancy. Doctors recommend expecting ladies to take folic acid supplements and food rich in this vitamin such as green leafy vegetables, bananas, leafy vegetables etc.
• Vitamin B12 deficiency anemia: It is a very essential vitamin which helps in the production of red blood cells so as to keep the oxygen flow in a regular manner. Some women prefer to take vitamin B12 supplements in their diet but if the vitamin does not get processed by the body, then it may cause a deficiency of this particular vitamin.

There are various symptoms that can be prevalent during anemia in pregnancy which are as follows:

• Difficulty in breathing
• Pain in chest
• Concentration problems
• Heart-related problems
• Dizziness and fatigue

There can be various causes of anemia such as lack of iron because the deficiency of iron can cause hindrance in the supply of blood to the developing fetus. Those women who have heavy blood flow during menstruation can cause heavy loss of red blood cells and hence it can lead to lack of blood in the body.
Therefore, one should always consult a gynaecologist so as to treat the anemia during pregnancy.