Iron deficiency is the most common cause and even in the developed world an estimated 30- 40% of preschool children and pregnant women have iron depletion. Several clinical evidence suggests that anaemia in pregnancy may lead to several complications such as pre-term delivery, low birth weight, possibly placental abruption and increased peripartum blood loss. The current article describes the UK guidelines on the management of iron deficiency in pregnancy.
Anemia is defined by Hb <110g/l in the first trimester, <105g/l in second and third trimesters and <100g/l in the postpartum period. The guideline states recommendations on diagnosis, laboratory investigations and management of iron deficiency anaemia in pregnancy. Some of the recommendations are given below: A complete blood count should be advised and assessed at 28 weeks Sufficient dietary information should be provided to all…
