Medically Reviewed by Dr. Shiva Khurana
In this blog, we will read “ How to increase haemoglobin during pregnancy? ”
Haemoglobin is an essential blood component responsible for carrying oxygen and nutrients throughout the body. Consequently, its deficiency can lead to various health issues.
During pregnancy, women typically experience lower haemoglobin levels compared to men, and as pregnancy progresses, the demand for haemoglobin increases to support both the mother and the baby.
It is common for pregnant women to have lower haemoglobin levels, which can pose risks to both the mother and the baby.
Therefore, it is crucial to understand effective strategies to increase haemoglobin levels during pregnancy for a safer and healthier gestation period.
Let’s get started.
Table of Contents
Haemoglobin level in pregnancy
Throughout pregnancy, a woman’s body undergoes significant changes, making it vital for doctors to monitor haemoglobin levels.
Haemoglobin, a protein found in red blood cells, plays a critical role in carrying oxygen throughout the body. Maintaining optimal haemoglobin levels during pregnancy is crucial to ensure that the growing fetus receives an adequate oxygen supply.
Various factors, including heredity, nutrition, and medical conditions, can influence haemoglobin levels. Therefore, it is essential to implement strategies to maintain healthy haemoglobin levels throughout pregnancy.
Take care of your haemoglobin
Consume a balanced diet.
A balanced diet rich in iron, vitamin C, and folic acid is essential to maintain haemoglobin levels during pregnancy. Iron-rich foods such as red meat, poultry, fish, beans, lentils, tofu, and fortified cereals support haemoglobin synthesis.
Additionally, incorporating sources of folic acid and vitamin C, such as citrus fruits, leafy green vegetables, and fortified cereals, aids in red blood cell production and iron absorption.
Take iron supplements.
Iron supplements may be necessary to supplement dietary intake during pregnancy. However, it is crucial to consult a healthcare professional before starting any supplementation to ensure appropriate dosage and minimize potential side effects. Overconsumption of iron can lead to nausea, vomiting, and constipation, underscoring the importance of medical guidance.
Avoid certain foods
Certain foods should be avoided during pregnancy as they may hinder iron absorption. These include high-fiber foods, calcium-rich foods, and beverages like tea and coffee. Tannins in tea and coffee can interfere with iron absorption, while calcium-rich foods such as cheese, yoghurt, and milk may also obstruct absorption. High-fiber diets containing nuts, seeds, and whole grains can further impede iron absorption.
Get regular exercise.
Regular physical activity is crucial for maintaining optimal haemoglobin levels during pregnancy. Exercise enhances circulation, facilitating oxygen transport throughout the body, and supports red blood cell formation. However, pregnant women should consult with a doctor before initiating any exercise regimen.
Get enough sleep
Adequate sleep is essential for maintaining haemoglobin levels during pregnancy. Sleep deprivation and exhaustion can contribute to decreased haemoglobin levels. Therefore, it is important for pregnant women to aim for 7-8 hours of sleep per night and take regular breaks during the day to rest and rejuvenate.
Manage medical conditions.
Medical disorders such as anaemia can contribute to decreased haemoglobin levels during pregnancy. Addressing these conditions is vital to maintaining healthy haemoglobin levels. Healthcare professionals may recommend medication, dietary modifications, or other interventions to manage these conditions effectively.
Normal Hemoglobin Ranges
| Trimester | Hemoglobin Level (g/dL) |
| First | 11.6 – 13.9 |
| Second | 10.5 – 13.0 |
| Third | 11.0 – 12.8 |
Low haemoglobin levels in pregnant women risk
Low haemoglobin levels during pregnancy, or anaemia, pose numerous risks for both the mother and the unborn child. The following are some dangers connected to low haemoglobin levels during pregnancy:
- Reduced delivery of oxygen: Your body may not receive enough oxygen. If your body were a large metropolis, oxygen would be like the energy that keeps it going. A shortage of haemoglobin means that certain portions of the city, or your body, may not receive the energy they require.
- Premature birth: Women who are pregnant and have low haemoglobin levels are more likely to give birth to their child early. This is due to the possibility that low iron levels could hinder the baby’s ability to grow into a healthy adult.
- Low birth weight: Low birth weight can also occur from anaemia in expectant mothers. Complications include respiratory distress, infections, and developmental impairments may result from this.
- Pale skin: When there is less oxygen in your blood, your skin may become pale or your lips may appear blue. Your lips and skin are healthy-coloured because of oxygen.
- Preeclampsia: Pregnant women who have low haemoglobin levels are more likely to have the dangerous illness known as preeclampsia, which is characterised by elevated blood pressure and damage to vital organs including the kidneys and liver. Both the mother and the child may be at risk for death as a result of this disorder.
- Postpartum Hemorrhage: Excessive bleeding following delivery is known as postpartum hemorrhage, and it is more likely to occur in women with low haemoglobin levels during pregnancy. This may need blood transfusions and can be a dangerous consequence.
- Weakness: In pregnant women, anaemia can result in weariness, weakness, and dyspnea. Their quality of life may suffer as a result, and they may find it difficult to do daily tasks.
- Cold hands and feet: If your hands and feet aren’t receiving enough warm, oxygen-rich blood, they may feel extremely cold.
Pregnant women should take the appropriate steps to maintain healthy levels of haemoglobin and have their levels evaluated frequently. This can involve eating a well-balanced, high-iron diet, taking iron supplements as directed by a doctor, and getting help if anaemic symptoms appear.
In conclusion, it is critical for the mother’s and the unborn child’s health to maintain an ideal haemoglobin level during pregnancy.
Pregnant women can greatly raise their haemoglobin levels by eating foods high in iron and supplementing with beta-carotene, vitamins C and A to increase iron absorption.
Maximise iron absorption
Optimising iron intake during pregnancy is the key to raising haemoglobin levels. The following essential nutrients can help with this process:
- Vitamin C: Promotes the absorption of iron. Broccoli, oranges, and strawberries are some of the sources.
- Vitamin A: Promotes the development of healthy red blood cells. present in spinach, sweet potatoes, and carrots.
- Beta-carotene: Found in vibrant fruits and vegetables, this vitamin is a precursor to vitamin A.
Conclusion
Pregnancy-related haemoglobin levels must be kept within a healthy range for the mother’s and the foetus’s wellbeing. Haemoglobin levels can be raised during pregnancy with a balanced diet, iron supplements, frequent exercise, enough sleep, and the management of underlying medical disorders. Before beginning any new supplementation or exercise program, as well as to manage any medical issues that may alter haemoglobin levels, it is vital to speak with a healthcare expert. Pregnant women can make sure that their haemoglobin levels are good for both themselves and their developing babies by heeding the advice and techniques provided here.
