As I have shared in prior blog posts and in my online pregnancy program, it is essential to treat iron deficiency anemia in pregnancy, when iron demands are higher – especially in the second and third trimesters. Anemia in pregnancy increases the risk of difficult outcomes for mother and baby, including pre-term birth, low birth weight, and postpartum hemorrhage.
Oral iron therapy has conventionally been the first line of choice due to cost and availability – however, it comes with more side effects, such as gastrointestinal issues that can hinder patients’ compliance.
Now, a brand-new 2024 meta-analysis from India’s International Institute of Health Management has assessed the effectiveness of IV iron for rapid iron replenishment in pregnancy. The study showed that IV iron was 21% more likely to reduce maternal complications compared to oral iron, with faster improvements in hemoglobin. In addition, researchers found that adverse reactions were less likely with IV as compared to oral therapy.
Given the impacts of anemia on post-partum maternal health as well – including fatigue, depression and breast-feeding challenges – it certainly makes sense to replenish iron levels prior to delivery. And it would appear that IV iron treatments could be a smart choice.
I hope you have found this helpful, and do let me know if you have any questions!
If you are hungry for more evidence-based information for your fertility or pregnancy journey, visit www.myhealthypregnancyplan.com for free webinars and complete programs.
And if you are a care-provider looking for evidence-based resources for your fertility or pregnancy patients, please get in touch with us at support@myhealthypregnancyplan.com, or visit www.myhealthypregnancyplan.com/ce-courses-for-naturopathic-doctors.
In health,
Dr Jocelyn Land-Murphy, ND
Terra Life
Disclaimer: The information and content provided is for general educational and informational purposes only and is not professional medical advice, nor is it intended to be a substitute therefore. Please consult the Disclaimer and Terms of Use for full details.
References:
Pandey, A. et al. (2024).Clinical outcome post treatment of anemia in pregnancy with intravenous versus oral iron therapy: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Scientific Reports, 179 (2024).