How to Increase Haemoglobin During Pregnancy: A Comprehensive Guide

Introduction

At my clinic, I’ve gotten used to seeing low haemoglobin levels in pregnant women. Patients who come in feel fatigued, dizzy, and have shortness of breath; many have been dismissing it as a normal part of pregnancy. Sometimes, it is. But all too often, their haemoglobin levels have dropped low enough to warrant concern.

During pregnancy, blood plasma volume significantly increases, almost 50%, but red blood cell production may still be lagging behind. The result is a dilution drop in haemoglobin. Add iron deficiency on top of that, and it is a significant concern. For women who are undergoing fertility treatments, low levels of haemoglobin also hinder the development of the uterine lining. That is why we at our  IVF centre in Srinagar keep checking these levels even before we start the treatment.

What is the Standard for Low Hemoglobin in Pregnancy?

For levels just at the thresholds or slightly higher, these are often managed with dietary changes. Beyond 10 g/dL is considered proper medical treatment.

Reasons for Dropping Haemoglobin Levels During Pregnancy

From my experience, these are the most common causes:

• During pregnancy, the baby takes iron from your own stores.
• Expansion of plasma volume exceeds the production of red blood cells.
• Reduction of dietary intake of Iron, folate, and Vitamin B12.
• Increased vomiting, which leads to decreased absorption of nutrients.
• Short interval between pregnancies.
• Prior to conception, the iron stores were already low.

Incrementing Haemoglobin During Pregnancy: Step by Step

Daily Consumption of Iron-Sourced Food

This is the core. Excellent plant-based sources include spinach, methi, lentils, rajma, chickpeas, and dates, as well as good additions of jaggery and raisins. Lean meat, eggs, and fish are sources of heme iron, which is absorbed with far more efficiency. I tell patients to think of iron-rich food not as a supplement to add occasionally, but as an everyday habit.

Pair with Vitamin C

Always consider that when you consume iron, absorption is instantaneously improved when you include vitamin C. Squeeze lemon over your dal, consume guava or orange with your meal, include tomatoes in your sabzi, etc. Pairing iron with vitamin C may improve absorption by 70%, which is really a great deal.

Refrain from Consumption of Tea and Coffee During Meals

At least 1 hour intervals after iron-rich meals, you should drink tea as it is greatly recommended and most people ignore it. Tannins present in tea and coffee block iron absorption, and that is one of the most ignored pieces of advice.

Importance of Folate and Vitamin B12

The formation of red blood cells and the development of the neural tube are supported by folate, and vitamin B12 is involved in the renewal of ageing red blood cells. Both of these vitamins can be found in eggs, dairy products, green vegetables, and legumes. Some prenatal vitamins contain these nutrients, but consistency in consuming food sources of these vitamins is something that prenatal vitamins cannot provide.

Consistency is Key When Taking Your Supplements

From the second to the third trimester, a pregnant woman’s body requires 27mg to 40mg of iron a day, something nutrition by itself is not capable of providing. If you are concerned by digestive side effects, you should speak to your physician, rather than taking supplements at your own discretion. Changing to a more gentle supplement is an option; you may just have to wait for some time to pass before you make the switch.

Throughout your pregnancy, continuous positive haemoglobin is essential for both supportive uterine nourishment of the mother and the baby.

Movement, Rest, & Hydration

Dehydration leads to thickened blood and an increase in symptoms of fatigue. The goal is to drink between 8 to 10 cups of water a day. Enough sleep leads to an increase in red blood cell production. Increased circulation and the delivery of oxygen are improved by short walks while the body remains unstrained.

Our Approach at Valley Fertility Centre

Since the beginning, Valley Fertility Centre has included maintaining haemoglobin levels in our antenatal care. Detecting a downward trend allows us to take action sooner, providing us with more options as opposed to waiting until symptoms become more severe.

When to Contact Your Doctor

If you experience extreme fatigue to the point where you are unable to function, heart palpitations, shortness of breath, and pale coloring of your lips and the inner bottom of your eyelids, do not wait and consult your doctor. These symptoms indicate that your haemoglobin levels have fallen to a level that cannot be treated with proper nutrition.

Common Questions

Does low haemoglobin pose risks to my baby?

Yes. Untreated anaemia reduces the oxygen supply to the fetus, which can impact fetal development and decrease the baby’s birth weight. The risks associated with anaemia are significantly less after the condition is corrected.

How quickly can I expect changes in haemoglobin from a new diet?

You will often experience an increase in energy within 2-3 weeks. Blood tests will reflect changes in haemoglobin after 4-6 weeks of sustained dietary changes and supplements.

Are iron supplements safe to take during the whole pregnancy?

Yes, iron supplements are safe throughout pregnancy, as long as they have been prescribed properly and are taken under the supervision of a healthcare provider. If side effects occur, they must be reported to a physician, and you must not stop the medication without consulting the prescriber.

How often should I get my haemoglobin tested during my pregnancy?

You should have haemoglobin checked at least once per trimester, and more frequently if your initial haemoglobin is low or if you have symptoms that develop between visits.