Are intravenous iron infusions safe during pregnancy?
Published evidence reports that intravenous iron is safe and effective in the second and third trimesters of pregnancy. Intravenous iron is the preferred route when there is oral iron intolerance or in those situations where oral iron is ineffective or harmful.
When are iron infusions needed during pregnancy?
Other indications to use intravenous iron upfront include women diagnosed with IDA in late pregnancy (more than 38 weeks gestation); women with IDA with a high risk of antepartum blood loss, for example, women with placenta percreta; or symptomatic postpartum women that have suffered moderate blood loss (Hb <80g/L).
Which iron injection is best in pregnancy?
In conclusion, our results showed that intravenous iron sucrose therapy was effective to treat moderate anaemia in pregnant women. Intramuscular preparations are known to be associated with local side-effects. Iron sucrose complex iv therapy was with negligible side effects.
Can low iron affect the baby?
Severe iron deficiency anemia during pregnancy increases the risk of premature birth (when delivery occurs before 37 complete weeks of pregnancy). Iron deficiency anemia during pregnancy is also associated with having a low birth weight baby and postpartum depression.
How long do iron infusions take?
Most iron infusions are completed within an hour. Depending on the iron product used, some infusions may take up to 3 hours. During this time, you are expected to remain seated. Keep in mind that a slow infusion rate helps in preventing undesired complications.
What is considered severe anemia during pregnancy?
Severe anemia in pregnancy (Hb <7 g/dL) requires urgent medical treatment and Hb <4 g/dL is an emergency carrying a risk of congestive cardiac failure, sepsis and death. Physiological adaptation in pregnancy leads to physiological anemia of pregnancy.