Signs of anaemia in pregnancy

Pregnancy can cause tiredness and breathlessness by itself, so symptoms do not establish anaemia. Anaemia means the blood has less haemoglobin than your body needs to carry oxygen efficiently. Iron deficiency is a common cause, but other forms exist. A blood test can check haemoglobin and related measures, while your clinician may consider diet, bleeding, previous results, and other health conditions.

Tell your midwife or doctor about persistent tiredness, dizziness, breathlessness, paleness, or palpitations, especially if symptoms are worsening. Arrange the recommended blood test and take prescribed supplements exactly as directed. Include iron-containing foods such as beans, lentils, meat, leafy vegetables, and fortified cereals where suitable. Ask before starting or changing a supplement because the cause and dose need individual assessment.

Seek urgent medical help for severe breathlessness at rest, chest pain, fainting, confusion, a racing heartbeat that does not settle, or heavy bleeding. Contact your maternity team promptly if you feel markedly weaker or notice symptoms that are rapidly progressing. Anaemia is treatable, but significant symptoms should not be self-managed without assessment.

Ask what your blood results show, whether iron deficiency is the cause, how to take treatment around meals or other medicines, when your blood should be rechecked, and what symptoms should trigger earlier contact.