Pregnancy
Microcytic anemia is a form of anemia that various factors, including pregnancy, can cause. In pregnant women, microcytic anemia is most often caused by iron deficiency. This condition is common during pregnancy because the body’s demand for iron increases as the baby grows. Additionally, iron is lost through bleeding during pregnancy. Bleeding can occur during implantation of the fertilized egg, as well as in the first, second, and third trimesters. Microcytic anemia can also occur if a woman does not consume enough iron-rich foods or takes certain medications that interfere with iron absorption.
Anemia during pregnancy can lead to serious complications for both the mother and the child. It can cause fatigue, preterm labor, preeclampsia, and low birth weight. Another complication is toxemia, a serious condition that occurs when too many waste products are in the blood. Both toxemia and preeclampsia can be fatal if left untreated.
For these reasons, pregnant women must be screened for anemia at their first prenatal visit. If microcytic anemia is diagnosed, treatment options will be discussed with the expecting mother so that she can make the best decision for her health and her baby’s health.
