ஹீமோகுளோபின் (Hemoglobin - Hb)

Why is my Hb lower in pregnancy than it was before?

This is called physiological anaemia of pregnancy and is completely normal. Your plasma (fluid) volume increases by about 50%, but your red cell mass increases by only 20–30%. This dilutes the concentration of hemoglobin — so the number reads lower even if your iron stores are adequate. This is why the cutoff for anaemia in pregnancy (11 g/dL) is lower than for non-pregnant women (12 g/dL).

My iron tablets are causing constipation and nausea. What should I do?

Iron supplements commonly cause constipation, nausea, or dark stools — this is expected and not dangerous. To reduce side effects: take tablets after a meal (not on an empty stomach), drink plenty of water, increase dietary fibre (more vegetables, ragi, oats), and if needed your doctor can switch you to a different iron formulation (ferrous bisglycinate is generally better tolerated than ferrous sulphate). Do not stop the tablets without discussing with your doctor.

What are the best foods to increase iron during pregnancy?

Top iron-rich foods for South Indian diets: drumstick leaves (murungai keerai) — one of the richest plant iron sources; horse gram (kulthi); ragi/finger millet; groundnuts; sesame seeds (til/ellu); leafy greens (spinach, methi, amaranth/mulai keerai); jaggery; dry dates; and beans/lentils. Always pair with a Vitamin C source: a squeeze of lemon on dal, fresh tomatoes in a stir-fry, or a small cup of amla juice can significantly increase how much iron your gut absorbs.

Will anaemia affect my baby?

Mild anaemia, treated promptly, generally has no lasting impact on the baby. Moderate to severe anaemia that goes untreated increases the risk of low birth weight, preterm delivery, and fetal growth restriction. Your baby's iron stores are prioritised over yours — the placenta actively transfers iron to the baby — but severe maternal anaemia can deplete baby's stores too. Getting your Hb up with treatment benefits both of you.

Does a high Hb mean I'm extra healthy?

Not necessarily. An abnormally high Hb (Polycythemia) can sometimes indicate severe dehydration or other underlying conditions. In pregnancy, we primarily look for levels maintained within the healthy range (11.0–13.0 g/dL).

Can I take iron tablets and calcium tablets together?

No. Calcium inhibits iron absorption significantly. Take iron tablets and calcium supplements at least 2 hours apart. A common routine: iron tablet in the morning with breakfast; calcium tablet at night.