“Iron Deficiency and Fertility: The Importance of Meeting Iron Needs During Pregnancy Planning”

Iron deficiency or iron deficiency anemia not only affects health conditions in general, but in particular, it also affects the fertility rate of men and women.

So, if Mums and Dads are currently planning a pregnancy, it’s a good idea to routinely check iron levels in the body to increase the chances of a successful pregnancy program.

How Can Iron Affect Fertility?

Actually, there are many factors that affect a person’s fertility rate, one of which is iron deficiency. A study shows that there is a close relationship between iron levels in the body and the level of fertility. A 2006 study found that women who regularly take iron supplements have a lower risk of experiencing ovulatory infertility.

Compared to men, women also have a greater risk of experiencing iron deficiency. This is because in this phase of life, women will experience menstruation. In addition, during pregnancy, iron is also needed to support the growth and development of the fetus. So, this need should be fulfilled long before a woman undergoes pregnancy. Therefore, women need more iron intake than men in their lives, especially if they are planning a pregnancy.

Also read: Never Pregnant? Get to know the HSG Test to Check Fertility

The Impact of Iron Deficiency During Planning for Promil and Undergoing Pregnancy

Often couples ignore iron levels in the body when planning a pregnancy. In fact, iron deficiency has a very close relationship with many fertility problems to complications during pregnancy.

In terms of fertility, iron-deficient women are more likely to experience anovulation, unhealthy eggs, and difficulty conceiving. Meanwhile, in pregnancy, iron deficiency can cause the risk of the fetus not developing well, miscarriage, low birth weight, and premature delivery.

Please note, during pregnancy, women need at least three times the amount of iron than before pregnancy. The reason is, this iron is needed by babies to form blood in their bodies. In addition, during pregnancy, iron is also needed to transport oxygen and nutrients to the baby. So, if a pregnant woman experiences iron deficiency, this will of course also affect the baby she is carrying.

Beware, Iron Deficiency Can Cause Infertility

Iron anemia causes a person’s body to be unable to produce enough red blood cells. Meanwhile, red blood cells are needed to deliver oxygen to all body tissues, including reproductive organs and tissues.

When a person has anemia, reproductive organs and tissues cannot function optimally and the eggs stored in the uterus will weaken over time. Without healthy egg cells, the chances of pregnancy will also decrease.

Also read: Be careful, these 9 unhealthy lifestyles can affect fertility

No Menstruation, One Sign of Iron Deficiency

In women, one of the signs of iron deficiency is the absence of menstruation. This condition is a form of body defense so as not to lose a lot of blood and iron during menstruation.

Research has found that about 50% of women of childbearing age who are deficient in iron will experience amenorrhea or no menstruation.

Meet Iron Needs Since Planning Pregnancy

So, now you understand the importance of iron if you are planning a pregnancy. So, make sure to meet your iron needs by eating foods that are high in iron, such as red meat and dark green leafy vegetables. If it’s still lacking, there’s nothing wrong with adding iron supplementation. However, be sure to consult a doctor first, Moms.

Also read: It’s been proven: Smoking interferes with male fertility!

Reference

Health Site. Iron Deficiency Anaemia May Affect Fertility: Expert Explains What Can Be Done.

Kin. Do iron levels affect fertility? Here’s what you need to know.