It is a condition in where there is reduced number of red blood cells in the body which leads to insufficient delivery of oxygen to the cells and to the baby. It occurs commonly in pregnancy because the body is producing more blood cells for the baby and it leads to deficiency of iron and vitamins in the body which causes Anemia. It’s normal to have mild Anemia, but a severe Anemia can occur due to low iron or vitamin content in the body and should be treated immediately to prevent further complications. 

Main types of Anemia during pregnancy include iron-deficiency anaemia, Folate-deficiency anaemia, and Vitamin B12 deficiency. Iron-deficiency anemia is the most common in pregnancy and it is occurs when body does not have enough iron to produce haemoglobin-protein in blood cells which carries oxygen to lungs and other parts of the body. Folate-deficiency anemia occurs when body is unable to produce new cells due to unavailability of folate. Folate is a natural vitamin found in green food like vegetables. During pregnancy, woman needs extra folate so the body make enough red blood cells to transport oxygen throughout, and it is necessary since its deficiency can directly contribute to birth defects such as neural tube abnormalities, and low birth weight.  Vitamin-b12 deficiency occurs in women who don’t eat meat, poultry, dairy products, and eggs which may contribute to birth defects, such as neural tube abnormalities, and could lead to preterm labour. Vitamin-B12 is necessary for producing healthy blood cells.

Haemoglobin Test and Haematocrit Tests are used to check if a pregnant woman is anemic are not, and then doctor accordingly prescribes iron and folic acid supplements. Patients experience fatigue, dizziness, shortness of breath, pale skin, irregular heartbeat, and cold hands and feet. It can be treated by taking iron and vitamin rich foods which include red meat, leafy green vegetables, eggs, nuts and seeds.