Your need for iron will just about double over your pre-pregnancy requirements. It is also important that you get adequate iron in pregnancy because towards the end of pregnancy, your baby will also be storing iron for their first six months of life.
Anemia Risk Factors
Some women are at higher risk for anemia. You may be more likely to be anemic if:
You have been dieting to lose weight Your pregnancies are closer than two years apart You bled heavily with your periods You don’t usually eat foods high in iron You have tested low or been told you have anemia You are under 20 years old
Signs of Anemia
Being low in iron can also cause you to feel more fatigued than normal in pregnancy, make you more susceptible to illness and infection, and other possible complications. The common signs of anemia in pregnancy include:
Fatigue Weakness Dizziness Shortness of breath Feeling cold, especially in the hands and feet Paleness Headaches Trouble concentrating
Testing for Anemia During Pregnancy
Whether you have any of these risk factors or signs of anemia, you will usually be tested at least twice during pregnancy for anemia. The timing is usually at the beginning of pregnancy and again around 28 weeks. Between 24 and 32 weeks, your body has had a large surge in blood volume to almost twice your pre-pregnancy amount. This can cause the amount of iron in your blood to become diluted, leading to a lower hemoglobin and hematocrit on your 28-week blood test. If you were found to be anemic at your 28-week test, you will likely be retested later in the third trimester, typically around 36 weeks.
Preventing Anemia in Pregnancy
Ideally, the best way to get the iron you need is from your diet. Iron supplements are not the answer for everyone. Iron pills can cause diarrhea, constipation, and upset stomach; prevent your body from taking in other nutrients; and are not as readily absorbed as iron from food. Typically, it will take a few weeks for any supplementation to change your iron levels. If you do need supplemental iron and you don’t tolerate standard preparations, discuss this with your healthcare provider. You may be able to consider liquid sources, such as Chlorophyll, Flora-Dix (vitamin), or herbal alternatives. Increase vitamin C when taking supplements. There are plenty of ways to get more iron in your diet. In addition to adding iron-rich foods (see below), try cooking with a cast iron pan. Avoid caffeine, and also avoid consuming excessive bran.
Iron-Rich Foods
Make a point to incorporate foods that are particularly high in iron, such as:
Green leafy vegetables, like broccoli, spinach, greens, kale, and bok choyTofuKidney beansBlack-eyed peasWhole-grain bread and cerealEggsBrown riceEnriched pastaLean red meats
A Word From Verywell
Iron is not important in pregnancy. Everyone needs iron throughout their lives. Preventing or treating anemia will make you feel better and healthier during pregnancy and beyond. Find ways to get your iron through nutrition whenever possible.
