Gestational Anemia: The Factors Associated and the Outcomes in the Mother and the Infant

Abstract

Background: Maternal anemia is considered a risk factor for pregnancy, because it is hazardous to both mother and fetus. Our study aimed to determine in each trimester of pregnancy the factors associated with anemia and the outcomes in the mother and infant in a cohort of Algerian pregnant women. Methods: We conducted a prospective and longitudinal cohort study of 300 women from December 2013 to July 2016. All consenting women attending antenatal consultation and had undergone complete blood count were included in the study. Sociodemographic characteristics and individual’s obstetrical history were collected. Factors associated to maternal anemia were investigated during each trimester of pregnancy. Data on delivery term, delivery mode and birth outcomes were collected. We performed a bivariate analysis using the Chi-square test for proportions, Student’s t-test, or one-way ANOVA for continuous variables and multiple comparisons. Results: The rate of gestational anemia was 58.0%. The average concentration of hemoglobin, hematocrit, blood volume and platelets were lower in anemic pregnant women. Factors associated with anemia were: lower hemoglobin levels, lower BMI in the 3rd trimester, inadequate gestational weight gain, insufficient caloric intake in the 1st and 3rd trimesters and non supplementation with iron. Maternal anemia increased the risk of low birth weight in early and late pregnancy and the risk of overrun term in mid and late pregnancy. Conclusion: Various antropomethric, haematological and nutritional factors affected gestational anemia. Gestational anemia was associated with increased risks of maternal and fetal complications. Community-based interventions should be enhanced considering the identified associated factors.