Frequency Of Iron Deficiency Anaemia In Pregnancy

• ORIGINAL ARTICLE | ISSUE DETAILS: VOL NO.2 | ISSUE NO. 1

Abstract

Objective: independent of gestational age, to ascertain the prevalence of iron deficiency anaemia in pregnant women.

Study design: a descriptive study

Duration and place of study: From January to Dec 2013, descriptive research was carried out at the Mardan Medical Complex’s Gynae-B Unit in Mardan.

Material and methods: In 2013, descriptive research was carried out at the Mardan Medical Complex’s Gynae-B Unit in Mardan. All Gynae B Unit pregnant patients, both indoor and outdoor, met the inclusion criteria. Of these expectant patients, 100 with a haemoglobin percentage of less than 10 gm/dl underwent further testing, including a detailed history assessment and questionnaire completion. All pertinent tests for iron deficiency anaemia were performed, including serum ferritin, Hb electrophoresis, and a complete blood picture. The whole blood picture also determines anaemias other than iron deficiency. The patient’s iron status is determined by serum ferritin, but the various forms of haemoglobin in the blood are identified by haemoglobin electrophoresis.

Results: Out of 100 patients, 73% had iron deficiency anaemia, 6% had thalassemia, and there were warning signs of hemolytic anaemia and blood loss anaemia from eclampsia, APH, and PET. In one instance, severe iron deficiency anaemia was discovered to be caused by a malarial parasite.

Conclusion: The most common type of anaemia during pregnancy is iron deficiency due to the increased demand for iron stores from repeated pregnancies.