Pernicious Anaemia in Pregnancy

Symptoms can include tiredness, breathlessness with activity, paleness, a sore or smooth tongue, reduced appetite, and a fast heartbeat. Numbness, pins and needles, balance changes, memory difficulty, or a burning sensation in the feet can suggest nerve involvement. Tiredness is common in pregnancy and has many causes; see [Tiredness in Pregnancy](/symptoms/tiredness-in-pregnancy/) for related guidance.

Blood tests may check haemoglobin, the size and appearance of red blood cells, vitamin B12, folate, and other markers. Clinicians may also look for the underlying absorption problem and assess symptoms affecting nerves. Do not start high-dose supplements without advice, because treatment choices and test interpretation can vary.

Treatment usually replaces vitamin B12 under medical supervision, often with injections when absorption is impaired. Your clinician will explain the schedule and whether monitoring blood counts or symptoms is needed. Iron deficiency can occur at the same time but is different from B12 deficiency; [Iron Therapy](/treatments/medical-gynaecology/iron-therapy/) is used only when iron deficiency is confirmed or considered likely.

Keep appointments and tell the maternity team about any numbness, balance change, or previous B12 treatment. A varied diet supports pregnancy, but food alone may not correct pernicious anaemia when absorption is affected.

Seek urgent help for chest pain, severe breathlessness at rest, fainting, confusion, sudden weakness, or rapidly worsening balance problems. Contact your maternity clinician promptly if profound tiredness, palpitations, or neurological symptoms are developing, as significant anaemia or B12 deficiency needs timely review.

Ask which results show B12 deficiency, whether absorption is affected, how replacement will be given, and when blood tests will be repeated. Ask whether folate or iron has also been checked, which nerve symptoms matter most, and who should coordinate care during pregnancy.