Iron and Pregnancy: Importance, Risks, and Common Mistakes in the Final Trimester

A pregnant woman's health during her pregnancy is closely linked to her intake of essential nutrients in specific amounts. Iron is one of the most important minerals, especially in the final months of pregnancy. A deficiency can lead to serious complications for both the mother and the baby. As delivery approaches, iron becomes even more critical to compensate for blood loss and support the baby’s development.

In an exclusive interview with Nadormagazine & Your Baby, Dr. Sanaa Mukhtar, OB-GYN Consultant, discussed common mistakes pregnant women make when using iron supplements, especially in the third trimester.

What Causes Anemia During Pregnancy?

Hemoglobin is a protein that carries iron in the blood and is found in red blood cells, lung tissue, kidney cells, and other parts of the body. It helps transport oxygen from the lungs to the body's tissues and returns carbon dioxide from the tissues back to the lungs. It also maintains blood pH at a healthy level (7.4).

Anemia during pregnancy can result from:

Morning sickness (which leads to vomiting and loss of nutrients).
A diet low in iron-rich foods.
Poor appetite and improper eating habits.
A condition called "physiological anemia" caused by a 50% increase in plasma volume, which dilutes red blood cell concentration.
Deficiency of folic acid, which is vital during early pregnancy.
Pre-existing conditions like stomach ulcers, kidney or liver disease, infections, or genetic disorders like sickle cell anemia.

Why Iron Is Vital in Late Pregnancy

In the eighth and ninth months, the baby’s circulatory system is fully functional and needs a strong blood supply rich in oxygen.
The mother must also prepare for blood loss during delivery.
A healthy hemoglobin level during pregnancy should range between 11–12 g/dL. Anything below this suggests iron deficiency.

Common Mistakes in Iron Supplementation

Taking iron tablets and injections simultaneously, thinking it boosts iron levels faster. In reality, this can reduce absorption and cause side effects like constipation or iron toxicity.
Some women take excessive doses without medical supervision.
Believing iron supplements lead to a larger baby or head, causing difficult labor — a myth not supported by medical evidence.

Tips for Proper Iron Supplementation

Avoid combining iron with antacids or calcium supplements, as they reduce absorption.
Don’t take iron after high-fiber meals or with whole grain bread or bran.
Take iron with Vitamin C (e.g., orange juice or a vitamin C tablet) to enhance absorption.
Don’t stop iron supplements in the final months — continue for at least 6 months during pregnancy and 3 months after delivery to recover from blood loss.
Don’t consume iron with foods like beans, soy, or nuts — they interfere with absorption.
Take iron with plain water only — avoid milk, coffee, tea, or soft drinks during intake.