Iron deficiency anemia and pregnancy, Prevention and treatment

Objective. - To assess the effectiveness and the safety of prevention and treatment of iron deficiency anemia during pregnancy. Methods. - French and English publications were searched using PubMed and Cochrane library. Results. - Early screening of iron deficiency by systematic examination and blood analysis seemed essential. Maternal and perinatal complications were correlated to the severity and to the mode of appearance of anemia. Systematic intakes of iron supplements seemed not to be recommended. In case of anemia during pregnancy, iron supplementation was not associated with a significant reduction in substantive maternal and neonatal outcomes. Oral iron supplementation increased blood parameters but exposed to digestive side effects. Women who received parenteral supplementation were more likely to have better hematological response but also severe potential side effects during pregnancy and in post-partum. The maternal tolerance of anemia motivated the choice between parenteral supplementation and blood transfusion. Conclusion. - Large and methodologically strong trials are necessary to evaluate the effects of iron supplementation on maternal health and pregnancy outcomes. (C) 2011 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.