In the weeks leading to birth one thing you want to pay attention to is your iron. It is needed for red blood cell production and to prevent anemia. Not only are iron demands increased in pregnancy, but it is also protective against the effects of postpartum blood loss. When we foster a solid iron base in the pregnancy, you in turn set yourself up for fewer complications after baby is born. Your care provider will probably check your iron levels around the 28 week mark. It is completely normal for you to be a little anemic at this time due to something called "hemodilution," which is literally the dilution of your blood. This is caused by the doubling of your blood volume at this point and a drop in your hemoglobin signals that the expansion is underway. Ask your care provider to check your iron again a little closer to birth so that if it’s still low you have time to bring that up some. Most providers look to keep your iron above 10.
Some things you can do to ensure healthy iron levels:
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May 2016
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