Postpartum Iron Deficiency: Causes, Symptoms and Treatments

Statistics indicate that postpartum iron deficiency occurs in 24% of women that haven’t taken any supplements during pregnancy. The frequency decreases to 14% in females who took iron supplements while pregnant. But what causes postpartum iron deficiency in the first place? Our guide takes a look at risk factors, symptoms, and treatments for low iron levels.

What Causes Postpartum Iron Deficiency?

There are many different reasons for low iron stores after giving birth, including:

• Bleeding during birth: If you had heavy bleeding while giving birth, it could deplete your iron stores. Lochia bleeding could also affect this mineral’s levels in your body.
• Multiple births: If you gave birth to multiple babies, that could lead to decreased iron levels.
• Low iron levels during pregnancy: It’s the most common reason for postpartum iron deficiency, especially if it wasn’t treated.

Symptoms of Postpartum Iron Deficiency

Iron deficiency symptoms are identical regardless of when and why they occur. Here are the signs your mineral levels could be low:

• Mood issues and irritability: If you feel nervous and even the smallest thing irritates you, the reason might lie in low iron levels.
• Poor energy levels: Do you feel a serious lack of energy? If you had enough sleep and there’s no other reason for it, iron could be the cause of low energy.
• Fatigue: If tiredness extends to several weeks, you should talk to your doctor to determine its cause.
• Headaches. Low iron levels could lead to frequent headaches.

What Are the Treatments for Postpartum Iron Deficiency?

The first step is to visit your doctor. They’ll likely order a blood test to check your iron stores and decide on the treatment accordingly. The iron quantity you need depends on your current levels, age, and other details. Pregnant and breastfeeding women need a minimum of 30 milligrams of iron daily. Your doctor will tell you about the targeted amount to take. Here are some things that could improve this mineral’s levels in your body!

Consume Iron-Rich Food

Your focus should primarily be on foods containing heme iron. The human body is much better at absorbing this than the non-heme version of this mineral. If you eat meat, feel free to consume poultry and red meat. Beef contains a generous amount of heme iron, as well as chicken and turkey.

Non-heme iron can also help, but keep in mind that the body doesn’t absorb as much of it, so you’ll need to consume additional foods to maximize absorption. You’ll find this mineral in broccoli and other green veggies, as well as dried fruit.

Take Iron Supplements

Food supplements are a common way of increasing nutrient intake. You’ll find specialized iron supplements available over the counter, but consult your doctor before taking them. These products might have side effects, such as nausea, diarrhea, or constipation. You can also overload on iron if you take too much.

If you don’t tolerate the supplements well, your doctor might prescribe iron IV infusions. They have minimal side effects and are effective at quickly restoring low iron levels.

Improve Iron Absorption

You also want to help your body use more iron that you ingest. Here’s how to do that with iron supplements:

• Combine orange juice with an iron supplement. Vitamin C helps iron absorption.
• Take the tablet between meals. You’ll have a lower chance of experiencing a side effect.
• Don’t drink iron with caffeine or milk. Avoid all dairy products for at least a few hours before and after taking the supplement.
• Be aware of how supplements interact with different medications. If you take antacids or other medications, don’t forget to consult with your doctor before taking an iron supplement.

Should You Breastfeed If You Have Iron Deficiency?

You can continue breastfeeding if you have iron deficiency as there is little iron in breast milk. Iron deficiency isn’t the likely reason for low breastmilk production. However, some natural herbs, such as burdock and dandelion root, are rich in iron and have a positive effect on breast milk supply.

Women who are breastfeeding can consider taking iron supplements. Consult your doctor and see which to choose between iron IV drip VS anemia alternative treatments. A medical professional will decide on the best course of treatment based on analyzing your iron stores and overall medical condition.