Is anemia common in pregnancy?

Question

Hello doctor,

I am a 30-year-old woman. I am 22 weeks pregnant. I have had blood work done today, which came out normal except for the following values. Hemoglobin 10.8 (11.7 to 15.5), RBC 3.79 (3.8 to 5), hematocrit 32 percent (35 to 45) and reticulocyte production index 0.72. My serum iron is normal at 56 (50 to 170). I have noticed my RBC and hemoglobin levels dropping during the last two to three months. My RBC and hemoglobin were 5.1 and 14, respectively, for many years. They were the same even when I was 18 weeks pregnant last year, but I lost that pregnancy.

Is this anemia typical of pregnancy, or should I worry about some marrow disease?
I am a bit of a hypochondriac, and the reticulocyte index being low makes me apprehensive. What treatment should I follow?

Kindly guide.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

Based on your query, my opinion is as follows:

The hemoglobin levels do fall during pregnancy.
Due to increased fluids in the body, hemodilution will occur, and overall hemoglobin levels will fall leading to anemia. This is one of the protective responses to reduce too much loss of blood, if any, during pregnancy.
The normal level during pregnancy is around 10.5 g/dl (gram per deciliter) (people with thalassemia usually have lower hemoglobin levels). Therefore, the reticulocyte production index is within the normal range. So, no need to worry.
No need to worry about hemoglobin; it is normal. Continue with a balanced diet and nutrition. Avoid stress and relax.

I hope this helps.

Thank you.