[bkarmasek]

I was told I have Iron deficiency anemia and I am 35 weeks pregnant. I am taking my vitamin + iron pill daily, and had this through 2 other pregnancies. I recently did some research on this deficiency in pregnancy and thought it would help to know, in others' experience what the negative effects of untreated anemia are, and how they can effect pregnancy and birth. Until this pregnancy I didn't take the anemia very seriously and am now hearing how serious it is... any information on the effects?

[DoulaLC]

One of the more likely effects, if one is seen, is premature birth. This, in turn, can result in health concerns for baby mostly due to the prematurity. This is partly why adequate iron amounts increase in the later part of pregnancy.

Are your levels currently where your doctor would like them to be? Did you require additional amounts of iron over the vitamin and iron pill you are taking?

[bkarmasek]

I had my glucose testing done at 31 weeks and they found that My iron levels were low so she suggested adding 65 mg pill to my daily prenatal vitamin. Can it negatively affect a C section? (blood loss)?

[DoulaLC]

Yes, the blood loss can be a concern. Your doctor will likely check again to see if the additional supplement shows a good result in raising your level. Did they also give you some suggestions for high iron or iron fortified foods?

If she is at all concerned about your numbers, they have other options, such as injections to help if need be. If a c-section becomes necessary, you are carefully monitored simply due to the surgery. Your doctor, being aware of any concern, would keep close tabs.

[bkarmasek]

Yes I have been eating iron fortified foods, and the levels aren't too bad, I don't think. I also have a thread that my baby may be breech which is why I wanted to know about the c-section. But I am normanlly anemic even when I am not pregnant, so it was a concern.