3 Ways to Prevent Anemia in Pregnancy

Anaemia is a common condition during pregnancy, affecting around 20% of pregnant women worldwide. Anaemia during pregnancy occurs when a woman does not have enough red blood cells to carry oxygen to her body's tissues, caused by a lack of iron, folic acid, or other essential nutrients in the diet. Pregnant women are at higher risk for anaemia due to the increased demand for iron and other nutrients to support the growth and development of the foetus. Anaemia during pregnancy can lead to serious complications such as preterm labour, low birth weight, and even maternal death. Therefore, it is essential to take preventive measures to avoid anaemia during pregnancy.

Causes of Anaemia During Pregnancy

Anaemia during pregnancy can be caused by a variety of factors, including:

•Iron deficiency: Pregnancy increases the body's demand for iron to support the growth of the foetus and the placenta. If the body does not receive enough iron from the diet, iron deficiency anaemia may occur.

•Folic acid deficiency: Folic acid is important for the production of red blood cells, and a deficiency can lead to anaemia.

•Vitamin B12 deficiency: Vitamin B12 is important for the production of red blood cells, and a deficiency can lead to anaemia.

•Blood loss: Pregnancy can lead to blood loss during delivery, and heavy bleeding during menstruation can also contribute to anaemia.

•Chronic diseases: Certain chronic diseases, such as sickle cell anaemia and thalassemia, can also cause anaemia during pregnancy.

•Placental insufficiency: In some cases, the placenta may not be able to provide enough oxygen and nutrients to the foetus, leading to anaemia

Here are 3 ways to prevent anaemia in pregnancy:

• Proper nutrition: A healthy and balanced diet that includes iron-rich foods can help prevent anaemia during pregnancy. Iron-rich foods include red meat, poultry, fish, leafy green vegetables, and fortified cereals. It is also essential to consume vitamin C-rich foods, as they help the body absorb iron. Examples of vitamin C-rich foods include citrus fruits, tomatoes, and bell peppers. Consuming folic acid and vitamin B12 through natural food sources such as leafy greens, nuts, seeds, beans, and fortified cereals can also help prevent anaemia.

• Prenatal vitamins: Prenatal vitamins are essential for pregnant women as they contain essential vitamins and minerals necessary for the development of the foetus Prenatal vitamins include iron, folic acid, vitamin B12, and other essential nutrients. It is important to take the prescribed dose of prenatal vitamins regularly to avoid deficiencies that can lead to anaemia. Consult with your healthcare provider to determine the right prenatal vitamin for you.

• Regular prenatal care: Regular prenatal care is essential to identify and manage anaemia during pregnancy. Prenatal care visits involve monitoring blood levels and identifying any deficiencies. Your healthcare provider may recommend further tests or refer you to a specialist if required. Early detection and treatment can help prevent anaemia from worsening and avoid any complications.

TrimacareTM Prenatal Vitamins for Anaemia Prevention

The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) recommends that pregnant women consume 35 mg of iron per day to prevent anaemia during pregnancy. This can be obtained through natural sources such as leafy green vegetables, cereals, and other iron-rich foods. However, if a pregnant woman is already anaemic, her doctor may prescribe a higher dosage of iron, such as 60 mg or more, in the form of Ferric Ascorbate or Ferrous Fumarate, which can be taken orally.

TrimacareTM prenatal vitamins are supplements created by Plus Plus Lifesciences, formulated by a team of physicians, pharmacologists, and nutritionists. This prenatal multivitamin follows guidelines from the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) and is available in three different packs, each tailored to the specific needs of each trimester of pregnancy.

The first-trimester package, TrimacareTM 1 prenatal multivitamin, does not contain iron as it is a common practice not to provide iron supplements during this period due to potential gastrointestinal issues. However, the second and third-trimester packages, TrimacareTM 2 and TrimacareTM 3 include 60mg of iron as Ferrous F. In addition to iron, TrimacareTM prenatal vitamins contain folic acid, vitamin B12, vitamin D, calcium, and other essential nutrients for a healthy pregnancy.

In conclusion, anaemia during pregnancy is a common condition that can have serious implications for both the mother and the developing foetus. Pregnant women need to be aware of the symptoms of anaemia and take steps to prevent it through a healthy diet, prenatal vitamins, and regular prenatal care. TrimacareTM prenatal vitamins can also help prevent anaemia and promote overall maternal and foetal health. If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, talk to your healthcare provider about your risk for anaemia and the best ways to prevent it.