What to know about iron deficiency anaemia in pregnancy

Iron helps make haemoglobin, the part of red blood cells that carries oxygen. Pregnancy increases the body's demand for blood production, and iron stores may become low. Anaemia can cause tiredness, weakness, headaches, dizziness, breathlessness on exertion, paleness or a fast heartbeat. These symptoms can overlap with normal pregnancy changes, so blood testing is needed rather than relying on symptoms alone.

A clinician may check haemoglobin and iron stores, then consider diet, menstrual history before pregnancy, previous anaemia, blood loss or another medical cause. Iron deficiency is treatable, but the cause and response to treatment should be reviewed.

Take prescribed iron exactly as directed and tell your clinician if nausea, constipation, stomach pain or dark stools make it difficult. Do not double a missed dose unless instructed. Iron-rich foods include meat, beans, lentils, leafy greens and fortified cereals; vitamin C foods can help the body absorb plant-based iron. Tea and coffee around meals may reduce absorption, so ask how to time drinks and supplements.

Keep antenatal appointments so blood results and symptoms can be followed. If tablets are not tolerated or do not improve the blood count, your clinician can explain other options.

Arrange prompt assessment for worsening breathlessness, chest discomfort, fainting, a racing heartbeat at rest, severe weakness or unusual bleeding. During pregnancy, contact your maternity team urgently for vaginal bleeding, severe abdominal pain, contractions, fluid loss or reduced fetal movement. Seek emergency help for severe breathing difficulty, collapse or confusion.

Ask which blood tests confirm iron deficiency, what dose and timing suit you, when improvement should be checked, and what to do about side effects. Ask whether another cause of anaemia needs investigation and how iron treatment fits with your other pregnancy supplements.