Gambo Ramatu: Anemia as a Preventable Pregnancy Challenge
Gambo Ramatu, Nurse, Educator, shared a post on X:
“Anemia in Pregnancy Definition:
Anemia in pregnancy is a condition in which the pregnant woman has a lower-than-normal hemoglobin level, reducing the blood’s ability to carry oxygen.
WHO commonly defines anemia in pregnancy as hemoglobin less than 11 g/dL.
Common causes
- Iron deficiency – the most common cause.
- Folic acid deficiency.
- Vitamin B12 deficiency.
- Malaria and other infections.
- Hookworm and other parasitic infections.
- Sickle cell disease or other inherited blood disorders.
- Blood loss.
- Poor nutritional intake.
Signs and symptoms
- Fatigue and weakness
- Pale skin, palms, or conjunctiva
- Dizziness or headache
- Shortness of breath
- Fast heartbeat/palpitations
- Reduced ability to perform activities
- Severe anemia may cause fainting or chest discomfort
Effects on pregnancy
Untreated significant anemia can increase the risk of:
- Maternal weakness and complications during delivery
- Preterm birth
- Low birth weight
- Poor fetal growth
- Reduced oxygen supply to the fetus
- Increased risk of maternal and fetal complications in severe cases
Diagnosis
- Full blood count (FBC/CBC) and hemoglobin level
- Blood film where appropriate
- Ferritin/iron studies when iron deficiency needs confirmation
- Testing for malaria, parasites, sickle cell disease, or other causes depending on the clinical situation.
Management
Iron and folic acid supplementation as recommended during antenatal care.
Iron-rich foods: meat, liver, beans, lentils, dark-green vegetables and fortified cereals.
Vitamin-C-rich foods can improve iron absorption.
Identify and treat the underlying cause, such as malaria or hookworm.
Severe anemia may require hospital assessment, intravenous iron, or blood transfusion, depending on severity and clinical condition.
Nursing management
Assess hemoglobin/FBC results and symptoms.
Monitor vital signs and maternal condition.
Administer prescribed iron/folic acid and educate about adherence.
Provide dietary education.
Encourage antenatal attendance and appropriate laboratory follow-up.
Observe for signs of severe anemia or complications and refer promptly.
Important: A pregnant woman with severe breathlessness, fainting, chest pain, very rapid heartbeat, or extreme weakness should receive urgent medical assessment.”
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