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Why would I need this test?
Many pregnant women develop mild anemia, where the number of their red blood cells are lower than expected. This is because all pregnant women retain water in their blood vessels and the water dilutes the blood, possibly causing a mild anemia. If you previously had anemia because of an iron deficiency, this worsens during pregnancy, and vitamin and mineral supplements may be recommended.
Screening for anemia is typically done in both the first and second trimester. A simple blood test is all that is needed to test for anemia.
Will anemia impact my pregnancy?
Mild anemia resulting from pregnancy will probably not impact your developing baby. If you have severe anemia, however, there is a greater chance that there will be an earlier delivery and/or a smaller baby. Vitamin supplements, specifically formulated to meet the increased iron needs during pregnancy, are usually recommended for all women during pregnancy and sometimes for a short while afterwards. Inadequate nutrition during pregnancy can also contribute to iron deficiency and anemia.
Will I continue to be anemic after my pregnancy?
Under most circumstances if your blood count was normal prior to becoming pregnant, you should not continue to be anemic after delivery. While you are breastfeeding and not menstruating, your need for iron will go down. Your health care provider tests your blood to make sure it has normalized. Vitamin supplements may be continued if the anemia does not subside.
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