Haemoglobin Levels: Causes, Risks and Treatment

Any woman’s pregnancy is an exciting and transformative moment in her life. A vital consideration before you bring your child into the world is ensuring that your pregnancy-related haemoglobin levels are within normal range.

What is Haemoglobin?

Haemoglobin is a type of protein that is found in the red blood cells of the body. This protein is abundant in iron. Haemoglobin is responsible for delivering oxygen to the body’s tissues and organs. The oxygen the body’s respiratory organs produce is transported to the tissues by haemoglobin. Haemoglobin levels during pregnancy should range from 11.5 to 13.0 g/dl. It is not at all favourable for the developing embryo and the pregnant lady when the haemoglobin level drops below 10.0 g/dl. Anaemia is a condition that can develop if haemoglobin levels drop.

Hemoglobin tests should be performed on pregnant women regularly. Blood and iron levels in the body both rise when a woman becomes pregnant. Pregnant women should consume more meals high in iron, vitamin C, and other nutrients to keep their haemoglobin levels at optimal levels. Haemoglobin is made in the bone marrow and is kept in reserve in our red blood cells. It facilitates the movement of oxygen from the lungs to other bodily areas by red blood cells. Pregnant women usually have low haemoglobin levels, which are frequently caused by low iron levels, which can occasionally cause pregnancy problems.

Causes of Low Haemoglobin Levels in Pregnant Women

Low haemoglobin levels during pregnancy, often referred to as anaemia, can manifest in various symptoms that impact a woman’s overall well-being. Common signs include extreme fatigue, weakness, dizziness, shortness of breath, and pale skin. These symptoms can significantly reduce a pregnant woman’s energy levels and ability to perform daily tasks, affecting both physical and emotional health. Some dietary measures and supplements may help boost haemoglobin levels at home. The nine-month journey isn’t always smooth sailing. Some causes of low haemoglobin during pregnancy include:

Increased blood volume.
Dilution of blood due to a rise in plasma.
Nutritional deficiencies.
Chronic diseases or infections.
Genetic disorders.

Risks of Low Hemoglobin Levels in Pregnant Women

The possible hazards are more alarming than the feelings of fatigue and nausea that low haemoglobin levels during pregnancy can cause. Haemoglobin is essential for carrying oxygen throughout the body, therefore a shortage can have adverse impacts on both the mother and the unborn child. Severe anaemia increases the mother’s risk of difficulties during labour and delivery, including the need for a blood transfusion. Plus, the heart may experience stress due to inadequate oxygen delivery, as it is already exerting more effort to sustain the pregnancy.

Low levels of haemoglobin may be a sign of anaemia. This occurs when a person does not have enough red blood cells or they stop functioning properly. Anaemia leads to a lack of oxygen in the body, which may be dangerous. It’s not just about numbers on a report. Low haemoglobin levels pose risks like:

Fatigue and weakness.
Breathlessness. Paleness.
Increased susceptibility to infections.
Complications during childbirth.

How does Iron deficiency Anemia during pregnancy affect the baby?

Severe iron deficiency anaemia has a significant effect on the baby’s development. The baby’s growth and development may be hampered by it because of the decreased oxygen supply. When this happens, the baby may experience intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR), which causes abnormal growth. Severe anaemia is also strongly linked to a considerable risk of preterm birth, or delivery before 37 weeks. Premature babies frequently have health issues since their organs are still developing. Another effect is low birth weight, which makes the baby more susceptible to infections and other issues. Beyond the immediate postpartum period, iron deficiency anaemia during pregnancy can have long-term repercussions, including an increased risk of infant death, according to some research.

Iron deficiency anaemia during pregnancy is also associated with having a low birth weight baby and postpartum depression. Some studies also show an increased risk of infant death immediately before or after birth. You are probably at an increased risk of developing anaemia during pregnancy if:

You have two closely spaced pregnancies
You are pregnant with more than one baby
You are vomiting frequently due to morning sickness
You don’t consume enough iron-rich foods
You have a heavy pre-pregnancy menstrual flow
You have a history of anaemia before your pregnancy

Tips to increase Haemoglobin during Pregnancy

Listed below are a few ways pregnant women can boost their haemoglobin levels:

Raise your iron levels because red blood cells need iron to make haemoglobin. So, eating meals high in iron can help raise haemoglobin levels during pregnancy. Meals such as millet, green leafy vegetables, eggs, tofu, salmon, green beans, and red meat are a few foods that are high in iron.
Increase your consumption of vitamin C: Vitamin C makes it easier for the body to absorb iron, which raises haemoglobin. Eat things like broccoli, citrus fruits (such as oranges and lemons), potatoes, strawberries, capsicums, tomatoes, and berries are foods that raise the body’s vitamin C concentration.
While exercising during pregnancy can be difficult, it also raises haemoglobin levels during this time. Simple workouts or mild yoga are always advised by doctors as part of a daily routine since they can assist boost blood flow to the uterus, which supports the health of the fetus. Additionally, it facilitates the body’s absorption of iron, which controls the body’s haemoglobin levels.
Eating beetroot while pregnant has been proven as beneficial, The red pigment known as betalain, along with bioactive substances like polyphenols, betalain, folates, inorganic nitrates, vitamins, and minerals, are all found in beetroots. Because it promotes haemoglobin count and the production of new red blood cells, beetroot is a highly recommended supplement for haemoglobin improvement.
Eat plenty of green leafy vegetables, These superfoods, which are essential for a pregnant woman’s health and iron absorption, include spinach, broccoli, and moringa. They are also high in folic acid, iron, and vitamins B and C.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is Haemoglobin and why is it important during pregnancy?

A: Hemoglobin is a protein found in red blood cells that transports oxygen throughout the body. During pregnancy, your body needs more oxygen to maintain both you and the baby. Low haemoglobin levels, known as anaemia, can cause issues for both the mother and the infant.

Q: What are the Symptoms of Low Haemoglobin during pregnancy?

A: Typical symptoms include weariness, weakness, disorientation, shortness of breath, and pale skin. These symptoms can have a substantial influence on your energy levels and capacity to do everyday duties.

Q: What causes low Haemoglobin Levels during pregnancy?

A: Low haemoglobin levels can be caused by a variety of circumstances, including increased blood volume during pregnancy, iron deficiency, insufficient folate or vitamin B12 intake, underlying medical disorders, and numerous pregnancies.

Q: How can I increase my Haemoglobin levels during pregnancy?

A: To increase haemoglobin levels, eat iron-rich foods such as lean meats, chicken, fish, beans, lentils, and leafy green vegetables. Vitamin C improves iron absorption, so add citrus fruits, tomatoes, and peppers to your diet. Regular exercise, as suggested by your doctor, can also be beneficial. In some circumstances, iron supplements may be recommended.

Q: How do low haemoglobin levels affect my baby?

A: Severe iron deficiency anaemia can cause major difficulties for the infant, such as intrauterine development restriction, early birth, and low birth weight. These problems may have long-term health consequences for the child.

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Our team of competent medical professionals and fertility specialists is committed to providing you with comprehensive care throughout your pregnancy. We offer individualized recommendations to treat low haemoglobin levels, which are a typical concern for many pregnant moms.

Choosing Imprimis IVF the best IVF treatment centre in Srinagar provides you with access to a supportive environment in which your and your unborn child’s health is prioritized. Allow us to help you achieve your goal of becoming a parent through a happy and healthy pregnancy.

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