How to Increase Hemoglobin Levels During Pregnancy?

Pregnancy is an exciting and life-changing time for any woman. One of the most important things to be aware of before you welcome your baby into your life is maintaining appropriate haemoglobin levels during pregnancy.

Haemoglobin is a protein produced by the bone marrow and stored in our red blood cells. It helps red blood cells transport oxygen from the lungs to other body parts. Women typically experience low haemoglobin levels during pregnancy, often due to low iron levels, which can sometimes cause pregnancy issues. So, if you ever wondered, “How to increase haemoglobin in pregnancy?”, read on to learn about some proactive steps you can take towards increasing haemoglobin levels during this special phase in life!

Causes of Low Haemoglobin Levels in Pregnant Women

The main reasons for a low level of haemoglobin during pregnancy are-

1. Increased Blood Volume: The mother’s blood volume increases during pregnancy to nourish the foetus. This haemodilution leads to lower haemoglobin concentration in the blood.

2. Iron deficiency: Iron is a primary component of haemoglobin. A diet that does not include iron-rich food or food items that help in iron absorption can cause low haemoglobin production.

3. Folate Deficiency: Folate is an essential element for red blood cell production. Lack of it in diet can result in anaemia.

4. Vitamin B12 Deficiency: This vitamin is essential for producing red blood cells. A deficiency of vitamin B12 caused by diet or underlying health issues can cause a low level of haemoglobin.

5. Chronic Illness: Prolonged diseases of vital organs such as kidneys and other infections can hinder the production of red blood cells, lowering haemoglobin levels.

6. Frequent Pregnancies: Closely spaced pregnancies that do not give enough time to the woman’s body to replenish and rest increase the risk of anaemia.

7. Blood Loss: Excessive bleeding due to trauma, medical issues, or during delivery can cause an abrupt reduction in haemoglobin.

Risks of Low Haemoglobin Level in Pregnant Women

Some of the most common health risks arising due to low haemoglobin during pregnancy are-

1. Risks for the mother

• Persisting fatigue and tiredness that reduce the ability to do everyday tasks.
• Weakened immunity that makes the woman susceptible to infections.
• Severe anaemia that can cause complications during childbirth.

2. Risks for the foetus

• Low haemoglobin in the mother causes insufficient oxygen supply to the foetus, which results in low weight at the time of birth.
• Premature birth and severe health issues in the newborn
• Chronic oxygen deficiency can reduce the foetus’s brain development.

3. Postpartum Risks

   Anaemic mothers are at a higher risk of suffering from postpartum depression and delayed physical and mental recovery.

Tips for Increasing Haemoglobin During Pregnancy 

Listed below are a few ways pregnant women can boost their haemoglobin levels:

• Increase iron levels: Iron is needed to form haemoglobin in red blood cells. Consuming iron-rich foods can thus help increase haemoglobin level during pregnancy. Some iron-rich foods are millets, green leafy veggies, eggs, tofu, fish, green beans, and red meat.
• Increase vitamin C intake: Vitamin C helps the body to absorb iron more efficiently, due to which the concentration of haemoglobin increases. Foods that increase vitamin C content in the body are broccoli, citrus fruits like oranges and lemons, potatoes, strawberries, capsicums, tomatoes, and berries.
• Exercise: Exercise during pregnancy can be challenging, but at the same time it helps in increasing the haemoglobin level during pregnancy. Doctors always suggest doing simple exercises or light yoga in a daily routine, as it can help elevate blood flow to the uterus which helps to keep the foetus healthy. It also aids in the absorption of iron in the body thereby regulating haemoglobin levels in the body.
• Consume beetroot: Beetroots contain a substance called betalain, which is a red pigment with bioactive compounds such as polyphenols, betalain, folates, inorganic nitrates, vitamins, and minerals. Beetroot is highly recommended in improving haemoglobin, since it helps in boosting haemoglobin count and regeneration of new red blood cells.
• Consume green leafy vegetables: Green leafy vegetables like spinach, broccoli, and moringa are superfoods that are rich in iron, folic acid, and vitamins B & C which are necessary for iron absorption and the health of a pregnant woman

Conclusion

So, if you’ve ever pondered the question “how to increase haemoglobin during pregnancy”, we hope this article has helped. The pregnancy journey is one of the most beautiful phases in a woman's life, where she goes through various bodily changes. It is important to take extra care of your and your baby’s health by following a well-balanced diet to avoid any risks during this time. Stay in touch with your health care provider for timely checkups and personalised tips on diet, lifestyle, and precautions to take. Ensure that your health insurance provides pre and postnatal care coverage to help you have a stress-free pregnancy. 

Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a certified medical and/or nutrition professional for any questions. Relying on any information provided in this blog is solely at your own risk, and ICICI Lombard is not responsible for any effects or consequences resulting from the use of the information shared.