Gestational Anaemia and its Associated Factors in Normal Pregnant Women

Objectives: To determine the hemoglobin levels in normal pregnant women and investigate the association of anemia with gestational age, number of antenatal visits, obstetrical complications and mode of delivery.

Methodology: This is a cross-sectional study conducted at the Lady Willingdon Hospital, Khairpur Mirs, Pakistan from May 2021 to August 2021. A total of 139 normal pregnant women were recruited during antenatal visits. Patients were grouped into normal and anemic groups based on serum hemoglobin levels. Gestational age, obstetrical complications, mode of delivery and fetal outcome were recorded to find its association with anemia. Data was analyzed on SPSS 20.0 and p-value < 0.05 was considered as statistically significant.

Results: Out of n=139 normal pregnant women, n=26 women had normal hemoglobin levels, n=49 were mild anemic, n=46 had moderate anemia whereas n=18 had severe anemia. Overall, the prevalence of gestational anemia was 81%. There was significant association between hemoglobin status and number of antenatal visits and complications in previous pregnancies. Hemoglobin status was not significantly associated with gestational age and mode of delivery.

Conclusion: In conclusion, we found that gestational anemia is highly prevalent in Pakistan. Early detection of anemia and its correction via supplementations are recommended.