Anaemia

What is Anaemia?

Anaemia is a condition characterised by a reduction in red blood cells (RBCs), the blood cells that carry oxygen to various parts of your body.

Anaemia during Pregnancy

Anaemia can sometimes occur during pregnancy, since an increased supply of blood is required to support your baby’s growth. When your body does not receive enough nutrients, it is unable to produce sufficient red blood cells and results in anaemia.

Types of Anaemia during Pregnancy

Depending on the deficient nutrient, the three major types of anaemia that can develop during pregnancy include iron-deficiency anaemia, vitamin B12 deficiency and folate-deficiency anaemia.

Symptoms of Anaemia during Pregnancy

Symptoms of anaemia during pregnancy include weakness, dizziness, tiredness, shortness of breath, increased heartbeat, difficulty in concentrating, and pale lips, skin and nails.

Diagnosis of Anaemia during Pregnancy

These symptoms may not be obvious in the initial stages of the condition as many are common to normal pregnancy. Hence, routine blood tests are important to detect anaemia in its early stages.

Treatment of Anaemia during Pregnancy

Treatment involves taking iron, folic acid and/or vitamin B12 supplements and including foods rich in these nutrients. You can prevent anaemia by including eggs, poultry, fish, lean red meat, dark green, leafy vegetables, iron-rich cereals and nuts in your diet. Vitamin C rich foods such as citrus fruits, tomatoes, bell peppers and strawberries help increase the absorption of iron in your body. If you are a vegetarian or vegan, please consult your doctor regarding taking vitamin B12 supplements during pregnancy and breastfeeding.