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Iron deficiency is common during pregnancy – it’s because of the sudden increase in blood volume needed to support your baby’s growth. Although many women are able to navigate iron deficiency just fine with supplements or diet, you might need more direct care, especially if you’ve had difficulties in past pregnancies or you have naturally low iron and want to get pregnant. Iron deficiency is associated with a lower birth weight and prematurity, and the risk only goes up with more severe anemia. It’s also been linked to a higher risk of postpartum depression. At Materna, we can offer
proactive, preventive guidance and compassionate, one-on-one care to help you maintain healthy iron levels for you and your baby.
Iron deficiency anemia occurs when the body doesn’t have enough iron to support the production of healthy red blood cells. This, in turn, causes difficulties carrying oxygen to your baby. Having enough iron is important in early pregnancy, but it can become especially important in the second trimester, meaning preparation is key to setting your baby up for a healthy and successful pregnancy.
Iron deficiency anemia can be caused by a simple increase in blood volume, but it can have other causes, as well:
We recommend IV iron infusions for anemia during early pregnancy, especially at a time when it can be difficult to eat foods and take supplements due to nausea. We test iron levels early and often to monitor your progress and develop a personalized care plan based on your needs and symptoms. This typically includes ways you can optimize your diet, especially if you’re having trouble eating.
Your infusions take place in our calm, caring, and professional outpatient setting with the oversight of our knowledgeable OB/GYN providers. We can support you throughout your pregnancy, whether it’s your first or your fourth, helping you achieve the best chances of success in your journey.
It can be difficult to distinguish what’s a sign of anemia and what’s an early pregnancy symptom. It’s always better to play it safe and meet with our OB/GYN providers to monitor and address as needed. If there’s no issue, we can work with you to find other possible causes for your symptoms and offer reassurance throughout this extremely important and emotionally taxing journey
Early signs of anemia to watch for include:
