A SYSTEMIC REVIEW ON IRON DEFICIENCY ANAEMIA IN PREGNANCY

*Dr. Kannan Sreevasumathi

Iron deficiency anaemia (IDA) remains one of the most prevalent and significant health concerns during pregnancy, affecting both maternal and foetal well-being. This review explores the global burden, underlying causes, clinical manifestations, and potential consequences of IDA in expectant mothers. The physiological demand for iron increases substantially throughout gestation, often exceeding dietary intake and the body’s compensatory mechanisms. If left undiagnosed or inadequately treated, IDA can lead to maternal complications such as fatigue, reduced work capacity, postpartum depression, and increased susceptibility to infections, as well as adverse foetal outcomes including preterm birth, low birth weight, and impaired neurodevelopment. The review also discusses the diagnostic criteria and outlines both preventive and therapeutic approaches, including dietary strategies, oral and intravenous iron supplementation, and emerging options like liposomal iron formulations. Emphasis is placed on the timely recognition and individualized management of IDA to ensure better pregnancy outcomes and improved maternal-foetal health.