Anaemia in pregnancy Flashcards
(14 cards)
When is anaemia screened for in pregnancy?
Booking clinic and 28 weeks gestation
Why are you likely to get anaemia in pregnancy?
During pregnancy, plasma volume increases which results in a reduction in haemoglobin concentration - blood is diluted
Why is it important to optimise the treatment of anaemia during pregnancy?
The women needs enough reserves for in case there is significant blood loss during delivery
How does anaemia present?
SOB, Fatigue, Dizziness, Pallor
What are the normal ranges of haemoglobin during pregnancy?
Booking bloods - > 110g/l, 28 weeks gestation - > 105g/l, Post partum - >100g/l
What indicates cause of anaemia?
Mean cell volume
What does low MCV indicate?
Iron deficiency
What does normal MCV indicate?
Physiological anaemia due to increased plasma volume of pregnancy
What does raised MCV indicate?
B12 or folate deficiency
What are women offered at booking clinic?
Haemoglobinopathy screening for thalassaemia and sickle cell disease
What are women started on?
Iron replacement eg. ferrous sulphate 200mg once daily
What do you do if women have a low B12?
Test for pernicious anaemia - checking for intrinsic factor antibodies, IM hydroxocobalamin injections, Oral cyanocobalamin
What about if investigations indicate thalassaemia & sickle cell anaemia?
High dose folic acid (5mg), close monitoring and transfusions when required
What do you do if women has folate deficiency?
Women should already be taking folic acid 400mcg per day, Folate deficiency = 5mg daily
