The Role of Iron Supplementation in Preventing Anemia during Pregnancy:
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Date
2025
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Publisher
Lifeline Medicine. V
Abstract
Anemia during pregnancy is a significant public health challenge, affecting maternal and fetal health outcomes globally. Iron deficiency anemia (IDA), the most prevalent form, results from the increased iron demands of pregnancy, often unmet by dietary intake alone. This condition is associated with adverse outcomes such as preterm birth, low birth weight, maternal fatigue, and impaired fetal development. Preventing anemia through iron supplementation has emerged as an
effective strategy, playing a vital role in enhancing maternal well-being and promoting healthy pregnancy outcomes. Iron supplementation has been shown to improve hemoglobin levels, reduce the prevalence of anemia, and mitigate risks associated with iron deficiency during pregnancy. By addressing the physiological demands for increased blood volume and fetal iron requirements, supplementation safeguards against complications like preeclampsia and intrauterine growth restriction. Despite its proven benefits, adherence to supplementation regimens can be hindered by gastrointestinal side effects and challenges in accessing affordable and appropriate iron formulations in resource-limited settings.
Description
Iron supplementation has been shown to improve hemoglobin levels, reduce the prevalence of anemia, and mitigate risks associated with iron deficiency during pregnancy
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Citation
Obeagu EI, Mahmoud SA. The Role of Iron Supplementation in Preventing Anemia during Pregnancy: A Review. Lifeline Medicine, 2025; 3(1): 1-8