5 Symptoms of Anaemia You Might Be Overlooking During Your Pregnancy

Anaemia During Pregnancy: Pregnancy brings many changes to a woman’s body, and while most are expected, some health concerns can quietly develop without clear warning signs. One such condition is anaemia, which is quite common during pregnancy but often overlooked in its early stages. Many women tend to ignore subtle symptoms, assuming they are just a normal part of pregnancy. However, untreated anaemia can lead to complications like premature delivery, low birth weight, and extreme fatigue during labour.

We spoke to Dr Payal Narang, Consultant Obstetrician & Gynaecologist, Motherhood Hospital Lullanagar, Pune, to understand the symptoms you should not ignore and how to manage this condition effectively.

What Causes Anaemia During Pregnancy?

Pregnancy increases the body’s need for iron as blood volume rises to support the growing baby. “During pregnancy, the body requires more iron to produce haemoglobin. When this demand is not met due to poor diet, reduced absorption, or increased needs, anaemia can develop,” explains Dr Payal Narang. According to a study of National Institutes of Health highlights, “The most common true anemias during pregnancy are iron deficiency anemia (approximately 75%) and folate deficiency megaloblastic anemia, which are more common in women who have inadequate diets and who are not receiving prenatal iron and folate supplements.”

5 Anemia Symptoms During Your Pregnancy

1. Constant Tiredness And Weakness

Feeling tired is common during pregnancy, but persistent exhaustion even after rest could be a warning sign. Many women dismiss ongoing fatigue as normal, but if it doesn’t improve with rest, it may indicate low haemoglobin levels. Dr Payal Narang shared, “Failure to manage it can raise the chances of premature delivery, low birth weight, and fatigue during labor. Moreover, it can also lead to infections, delayed recovery after delivery, and even impact the baby’s brain development because of poor oxygen supply.”

2. Pale Skin, Lips, And Nails

Subtle physical changes are easy to miss but can reveal a lot about your health. “Paleness of the skin, lips, or nails is often overlooked, yet it is a classic sign of anaemia that needs timely attention,” she notes.

3. Shortness of Breath

Breathlessness is another symptom that many pregnant women experience. “While mild breathlessness can occur in pregnancy, frequent or unusual shortness of breath may be linked to anaemia due to reduced oxygen supply,” explains Dr Payal Narang.

4. Dizziness Or Fainting

Feeling light-headed or faint can be alarming and should never be ignored. Dizziness or fainting episodes can point towards anaemia and require prompt evaluation.

5. Rapid Heartbeat And Headaches

Some symptoms may not seem directly related but can still signal anaemia. “Rapid heartbeat, recurring headaches, and difficulty concentrating are also associated with anaemia and should not be ignored,” adds Dr Payal Narang.

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Risks of Anaemia During Pregnancy

Anaemia during pregnancy is not just about feeling weak it can have serious consequences if left untreated. “If anaemia is not managed, it can increase the risk of premature delivery, low birth weight, infections, and delayed recovery after childbirth,” says Dr Narang. It can even affect the baby’s brain development due to reduced oxygen supply.

ALSO READ- Iron Deficiency in Indian Women: Understanding Anaemia and The Silent Health Crisis

Anaemia During Pregnancy: Management And Prevention Tips

Anaemia can be managed effectively with early diagnosis and proper care. Regular blood tests during pregnancy help detect low haemoglobin levels at an early stage. Dr Payal Narang recommends, “Include iron-rich foods such as spinach, beetroot, jaggery, lentils, and dates in your diet. Take supplements as prescribed, and avoid tea or coffee immediately after meals as they can reduce iron absorption.”

“Most importantly, regular antenatal check-ups and following medical advice can ensure a healthy pregnancy for both mother and baby,” she advises.

Anaemia during pregnancy is common but should never be ignored. Recognising early symptoms and seeking timely care can make a significant difference for both mother and baby.

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