More than 80 percent of pregnant women suffer from iron deficiency

Recent research in Ireland shows that the majority, more than 80 percent, of expectant mothers struggle with severe iron deficiency during pregnancy.

Anyone who thinks that a healthy pregnancy is self-evident in our modern society will be disappointed. A study published in the journal The American Journal of Clinical Nutritionshows that up to 80 per cent of Irish women struggle with breast cancer in their third trimester of pregnancy iron deficiency. During the study, 641 pregnant women were followed throughout their pregnancy.

During pregnancy, a woman’s body works overtime. Iron requirements skyrocket, with an almost tenfold increase. This mineral is essential for fetal development and maternal well-being. It seems now that many women are struggling to meet this high demand. About 50 percent of women start their pregnancy with an iron deficiency, and as the pregnancy progresses, this only gets worse. In addition, by taking iron measurements at different times, the researchers found that even women who started their pregnancy without anemia often ended up with a lack of iron.

Hidden dangers
Iron deficiency during pregnancy is not just a minor disorder. It can lead to anemia, which in turn is associated with a range of risks. From postpartum depression in the mother to premature birth and low birth weight in the baby: the effects can be long lasting. Even without anemia, iron deficiency can affect the child’s long-term brain development. Despite the seriousness of the situation, there is currently no general standard for diagnosing iron deficiency in pregnant women. In many cases he is alone measure the hemoglobin levelwhich gives an incomplete picture. This allows health problems to stay under the radar.

More is needed to combat iron deficiency
The researchers cite the lack of routine iron screening during pregnancy as a serious deficiency in health care. They urge a review of current guidelines and recommend routine screening of all pregnant women, regardless of whether anemia is present. According to the research, that could change dramatically. An interesting result of the study was that women who started taking iron supplements early in pregnancy had a lower risk of deficiency in the third trimester. This underlines the importance of timely intervention. The researchers propose a threshold value for ferritin (a protein that stores iron) that may predict later iron deficiencies.

As the medical world considers these new perspectives, one thing is clear: the strong bond between mother and child begins long before birth and deserves our full attention and care.

How do you recognize iron deficiency?
Iron deficiency can appear mildly, but there are some signs to look out for. Chronic fatigue and weakness are often the most obvious symptoms, often accompanied by pale skin, especially visible on the inside of the eyelids. Other warning signs include shortness of breath on exercise, frequent headaches or dizziness, and unexplained palpitations. Some people become more sensitive to cold, especially in their hands and feet, or they notice that their nails are getting softer and their hair is falling out faster. Lesser known but equally common symptoms include restless legs and unusual cravings for ice cream or other non-food items. Concentration problems and reduced memory can also indicate iron deficiency. However, it is essential to remember that these symptoms can also occur with other conditions, so when in doubt, it is always wise to consult a doctor for a professional diagnosis.