Anemia in Pregnancy: Signs, Causes, and Risks

When a hemoglobin level below normal appears in the prenatal record, the first reaction is confusion. Pregnancy is one of the common causes of iron deficiency anemia. Let's calmly go over what the test shows and what the doctor does about it.

What anemia of pregnancy is and why it develops

With anemia, the blood carries insufficient oxygen to the organs. The most common cause is a lack of iron: without it, hemoglobin cannot be built—the protein that carries oxygen. Anemia has three main mechanisms: blood loss, insufficient production of red cells, and their increased destruction. Among the conditions leading to anemia are heavy menstruation, pregnancy, ulcers, as well as a diet low in iron, folic acid, or vitamin B12. In pregnancy, iron deficiency anemia is most often associated with a lack of iron in the diet.

What hemoglobin is considered low in pregnancy

Severity is determined by hemoglobin level: mild — above 90 g/L, moderate — within 90–70 g/L, severe — less than 70 g/L. These figures are a guide for the doctor; the diagnosis is made by a doctor based on examination and blood tests.

Symptoms and signs of anemia by trimester

Anemia manifests as: fatigue and lack of energy, shortness of breath, noticeable heartbeat, pale skin, headaches. Less common are ringing in the ears, a strange taste of food, itching, a painful tongue, hair loss, a desire to eat non-food items (paper, ice), difficulty swallowing, cracks in the corners of the mouth, nail changes, restless legs; such symptoms are usually not related to pregnancy.

The role of iron in pregnancy: why there is not enough of it

During pregnancy, iron consumption rises sharply: it is needed for the fetus and placenta, and then for blood loss during childbirth and lactation. The balance ends up on the verge of deficiency, and any factor that reduces intake or increases consumption tips the scales. 20–30% of women of childbearing age have latent iron deficiency, and 8–10% have iron deficiency anemia.

Why anemia is dangerous for the mother and fetus

Without treatment, anemia increases the risk of illnesses and infections, since a lack of iron affects immunity. Complications from the heart and lungs are possible, such as a rapid heartbeat or heart failure. In pregnancy, the risk of complications before and after childbirth increases.

How it is diagnosed and when to see a doctor

The doctor asks about lifestyle and medical history, then usually orders a complete blood count—it shows the number of red cells and other blood cells; no preparation is needed for it. The test also checks for other types of anemia, for example those associated with B12 or folate deficiency. If the cause is unclear, additional examinations and a referral to a specialist may be needed.

• Fatigue and lack of energy
• Shortness of breath and noticeable heartbeat
• Pale skin and headaches

Anemia by itself is not a reason to call an ambulance; 103 or 112 — for signs of stroke or heart attack and other life-threatening conditions.

This material is for reference and does not replace a doctor's consultation: discuss the interpretation of the test and further steps with your doctor.

This content is for reference and does not replace a doctor's consultation. Medical disclaimer