Iron during pregnancy- how to supplement?

Iron is an element that plays an extremely important role in the human body. It is a component of hemoglobin, whose job is to transport oxygen to all the body’s cells. During pregnancy, the need for iron increases due to the needs of the growing baby, the placenta and fetal membranes, and the increase in the volume of the uterine muscle. In addition, the woman’s body is preparing for perinatal blood loss. It is believed that iron requirements during pregnancy increase by 1 mg in 1. trimester of pregnancy and by 7.5 mg per day in the third trimester. Its deficiency leads to microcyticanemia (anemia), the consequences of which include miscarriage, preterm labor or IUGR- intrauterine growth restriction of the fetus.

Iron deficiency- symptoms

Among the symptoms of iron deficiency are fatigue, headaches, decreased activity, shortness of breath during exertion, and also palpitations. In addition, pregnant women complain of skin pallor, clotting, and hair loss and splitting. There are also problems with concentration and excessive sleepiness.

Iron in pregnancy- dosage

In the case of established iron deficiency anemia, in a pregnant woman, treatment begins with low doses used orally for an extended period of time. When the results do not improve, the doctor usually changes the preparation. Besides, according to the recommendations, when the concentration of ferritin (iron storage protein) in the blood is < 60 mcg/l in a woman without anemia, iron supplementation up to approx. 30 mg/day from 16. One week of pregnancy.

How to take iron during pregnancy?

Iron in pregnancy is best taken on an empty stomach or between meals. This is because it has been proven that this is when it is absorbed best. And if the mother-to-be has gastrointestinal symptoms, iron can be taken with a meal, although its absorption will be worse. If, despite oral supplementation and increasing doses of iron, the results do not improve, intravenous administration or, in severe anemia, blood transfusion may be necessary.

Iron side effects

The most common side effects of iron preparations are gastrointestinal complaints. These include constipation, abdominal pain, nausea and even vomiting. If you experience any side effects, it is best to report it to your health care provider, who may suggest another iron preparation.

Is iron in pregnancy harmful?

According to the recommendations of the PTGiP
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supplementation is recommended only in  cases of iron deficiency, and not by all pregnant women. This is because the negative effect of excess of this element on the development of pregnancy has been proven. Studies have shown a possible link to the onset of insulin resistance, diabetes, and pre-eclampsia.

What products have iron in them?

Among other things, iron is present in meat and fish. Sources of divalent iron (nonheme iron) include vegetables such as e.g. parsley, spinach, beets or broad beans, as well as whole grain products and eggs.

Note that iron absorption can be increased or decreased by other foods. Vitamin C, present, for example, in orange juices, increases its absorption from the digestive tract, while substances in tea or bran reduce it.

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Recommendations of the Polish Society of Gynecologists and Obstetricians on supplementation in pregnant women.