Covenant Family Practice - Anemia of Pregnancy

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Anemia of Pregnancy

Written by Robert A Wilson

Friday, 16 February 2007

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In most pregnancies, your blood supply increases during the pregnancy to accommodate the growth and development of the baby. If your blood supply, including hemoglobin (the protein in blood that carries oxygen), is low, then you are considered to be anemic or have anemia. Good nutrition is especially important during pregnancy to help produce the needed increase of blood. Vitamins help contribute to a healthy body and pregnancy. Smoking alters the absorption of nutrients and can contribute to anemia. Other factors that increase the risk of anemia include: Poor nutrition, low iron and vitamin intake, alcohol consumption, and certain medications such as anti-seizure drugs.

Symptoms may include:

Shortness of breath, weakness, fainting, or tiredness
Pale skin or jaundiced (yellowish) skin
Possible changes in heartbeat
Headaches or forgetfulness
Nausea or abdominal pain

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Newsflash

Weight loss and reduced waist circumference are related to an improvement in heart health and factors related to metabolic syndrome. According to a new study, supplementing with calcium and vitamin D during weight loss enhances heart health benefits in women with typically low calcium intake.