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Pregnancy: Iron Deficiency Anemia What should you do at home? • Eat a diet that includes foods high in folic acid, such as citrus fruits, leafy green vegetables, and cereals that have folic acid as an ingredient. • Eat foods rich in iron, such as red meat, shellfish, poultry, eggs, beans, raisins, whole-grain bread, and leafy green vegetables. • Talk to your doctor about any cravings for nonfood items such as dirt, ashes, clay, or chalk. These cravings can be a sign of iron deficiency anemia. Iron deficiency anemia is a lack of iron in the red blood cells. Anemia during pregnancy is common, because a pregnant woman needs to make more red blood cells for the growing baby. If you do not have enough iron stored to meet your body's needs and the needs of your growing baby, you may become anemic. Anemia can make you feel weak and tired and can make your skin pale. Anemia can cause problems during childbirth and increase your risk for infections after delivery. Severe anemia is rare. But if you develop severe anemia, you may have a greater chance of having your baby early (preterm birth), or having a baby with a low birth weight. You may need to take iron pills, because what you eat probably does not provide enough iron for your increased needs. Also, your doctor will probably recommend a multivitamin that has folic acid in it. The right vitamins and a healthy diet can raise your red blood cell count to a more normal level. • If your doctor recommends multivitamin, iron, or folic acid supplements, take them as directed. Call your doctor if you think you are having a problem with your supplements. If your doctor tells you to take iron pills: • Try to take the pills on an empty stomach about 1 hour before or 2 hours after meals. But you may need to take iron with food to avoid an upset stomach. • Do not take antacids or drink milk or caffeine drinks (such as coffee, tea, or cola) at the same time or within 2 hours of the time that you take your iron. They can keep your body from absorbing the iron well. • Vitamin C (from foods or supplements) helps your body absorb iron. Try taking iron pills with a glass of orange juice or some other food high in vitamin C. • Iron pills may cause stomach problems, such as heartburn, nausea, diarrhea, constipation, and cramps. Be sure to drink plenty of fluids, and include fruits, vegetables, and fiber in your diet each day. • Do not stop taking iron pills without talking to your doctor first. Even after you start to feel better, it will take several months for your body to build up a store of iron. Call your doctor if you think you are having a problem with your iron pills. • If you miss a pill, do not take a double dose of iron. • Keep iron pills out of the reach of small children. An overdose of iron can be very dangerous. When should you call for help? Watch closely for changes in your health, and be sure to contact your doctor if: • Your fatigue and weakness continue or get worse. • You have nausea, vomiting, constipation, diarrhea, or heartburn. • You do not get better as expected. ©2007-2015 Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise disclaims any liability for use of this information, which does not replace medical advice. 2015-05-ad1137