It is important for pregnant women to meet their nutritional needs during pregnancy. One of the essential nutrients for the growth of both the mother and the fetus is iron. Early in pregnancy, iron is required for the formation of blood cells in both the mother and the fetus. A deficiency in iron can certainly affect the growth of the baby and the fetus.

Iron requirements during pregnancy

During pregnancy, it is recommended that pregnant women consume 30–60 mg of elemental iron per day, equivalent to 300 mg of ferrous sulfate supplements, 180 mg of ferrous fumarate, or 500 mg of ferrous gluconate. Iron is very important for the health of the mother and the fetus because it plays a role in the formation of red blood cells. Many pregnant women experience anemia or a deficiency of red blood cells during their pregnancy. This condition contributes to the high rate of postpartum hemorrhage, which is a leading cause of maternal mortality. Therefore, it is important for pregnant women to meet their iron needs during pregnancy.

Symptoms of iron deficiency in pregnant women

Iron deficiency during pregnancy often appears without symptoms. As a result, many pregnant women do not realize that they are experiencing an iron deficiency. Some symptoms of iron deficiency that you need to recognize include fatigue, paleness, loss of appetite, and difficulty concentrating. Additionally, a rapid heartbeat and chest pain can also be signs of iron deficiency.

Dangers of iron deficiency in pregnant women

Iron deficiency during pregnancy can cause fetal growth disorders and health problems for the pregnant woman. The effects of iron deficiency can even be felt after childbirth. Some dangers of iron deficiency in pregnant women include:

1. Impaired Fetal Growth

In pregnancy, iron helps the growth and development of the fetus in the womb. One of the dangers of pregnant women lacking iron and folic acid is the increased risk of the fetus being born with defects (such as spina bifida).

2. Increased Risk of Miscarriage

Iron helps circulate oxygen throughout the body during pregnancy. If the baby is iron deficient, the supply of oxygen and nutrients to the fetus will also be reduced, increasing the risk of fetal death or miscarriage.

3. Risk of Premature Birth

Several studies show that in the first trimester of pregnancy, iron deficiency can increase the risk of premature birth. Premature babies are also at risk of developmental disorders.

4. Low Birth Weight

Iron deficiency is often associated with low birth weight (LBW) in babies. A baby is considered to have low birth weight if it is born weighing less than 2.5 kilograms. LBW babies are not only smaller but also tend to have problems with feeding, difficulty maintaining body temperature, and low blood sugar levels.

5. Postpartum Depression

Iron deficiency can also contribute to postpartum depression, a type of mood disorder that occurs after childbirth. Approximately 15 percent of first-time mothers experience this condition. A lack of iron affects the brain's production of serotonin and dopamine, which can lead to symptoms of depression.

6. Fatigue and Reduced Breast Milk Production

Iron deficiency can also cause mothers to feel more easily fatigued and have trouble concentrating after childbirth. This is because a lack of iron hinders hemoglobin production, reducing the oxygen supply throughout the body. Consequently, the body feels weak and lethargic.

During pregnancy, it is important to have regular check-ups to ensure the healthy growth of the fetus. If you experience symptoms of iron deficiency, consult a doctor for appropriate treatment. Your doctor can recommend a nutritious diet to meet your needs during pregnancy or prescribe iron supplements if necessary.

If you need medical advice or consultation, you can either visit a doctor or make use of the consultation features that are available in the Ai Care application by downloading the Ai Care application from the App Store or Play Store.

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