Role of Iron Supplements on Pregnancy Outcomes

Abstract

Background: Anemia is one of the most widely recognized nutritional deficiencies for the duration of pregnancy in underdeveloped countries. It is a risk factor for preterm delivery and consequent low birth weight new born, and subsequent ill effects on neonate and infant health. Further research and sufficient data in different setting is required for determining the extent to which maternal anemia might contribute to maternal morbidity, mortality and impact on pregnancy outcomes. Objective: To assess the effects of iron supplements on pregnancy outcomes. Study Design: Cross-sectional study in which women delivered in hospital were questioned for history of intake of iron supplements during ante-natal period and new born was examined for any adverse effects of iron deficiency anemia. Setting: Hilal-E-Ahmar Maternity Hospital Faisalabad. Results and Discussion: 400 respondents were included in study that was regular in attending ante-natal clinic in the hospital during different gestational period. No significant adverse effects/outcomes were seen in women and newborn irrespective of frequency of iron supplementation already taken during these gestational periods. Conclusion: Majority of the newborn delivered full term and without any complication of pregnancy in this study as well as most of them had normal birth weight. This finding is linked with intake of iron supplements taken by majority of pregnant women during antenatal care. Incidence of low birth weight new born, abortion (spontaneous & therapeutic) and fetal deaths were almost negligible.