Importance Of Taking Iron Supplements During Pregnancy

It Is The Basic Component Of Blood:

Iron makes up haemoglobin, which is a major component of blood. This is what helps the blood carry oxygen to different parts of our cells. The foetus needs iron to make blood for itself too.

It Is Required For A Healthy Immune System:

Iron helps build up immunity for both the mother and baby. Immunity is very important to keep illnesses at bay. When the mother's immune system is strong, she not only prevents any illness to herself but also to her foetus.

It Is Necessary For Enzyme Production:

Iron is used to produce important enzymes in our body, which helps its various functions.

It Helps In Building The Connective Tissues:

Iron is used to synthesize a protein called myoglobin, which supplies oxygen to the muscles and other connective tissues.

It Is Used To Make Extra Blood:

During pregnancy, our body requires more blood than usual. Therefore, iron is very much needed to manufacture the excess of blood required.

It Is Required By The Foetus During The Second And Third Trimesters:

The foetus uses the iron in the mother's blood to build up its muscles and also synthesize proteins. This is why a lot of doctors increase the iron dosage at this time.

Right Amount Of Iron In Pregnant Women Reduces The Risk Of Complications:

When there is enough iron in the mother's blood, there are lesser chances of complications to the mother during pregnancy. Enough blood in the body ensures the well-being of the mother, even if there is some blood loss during delivery.

Iron Is Required For A Healthy Baby:

Adequate amount of iron helps the baby develop normally functioning internal organs. It also reduces the risk of pre-mature birth and other complications during delivery.

It Ensures Healthy Weight Gain Of The Baby:

Low birth weight has been liked to a high infant mortality rate. When the foetus is getting enough iron, it will develop normally and will have a healthy weight during birth.

Iron Is Required For Post Pregnancy Recovery Of The Mother:

Iron is important to help the mother recover from the effects of pregnancy. The mother needs iron to heal her body and bounce back to its normal functions.
Important Things To Remember:
-
It is always better to follow the guidelines of a doctor who will recommend you an iron supplement, which will suit your needs, as self-medication is extremely dangerous.

Also, you are advised not to exceed the daily dose of iron tablets, as excess iron too is harmful for your pregnancy. Too much iron in the blood is known to cause gestational diabetes, preeclampsia, high blood pressure and also miscarriage.

Certain iron medications also cause side effects such as constipation, or excess nausea too. Following your doctor's advice will ensure that you are in the pink of your health, and your baby is developing well.