Why iron matters
Iron is part of hemoglobin, the protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen. During pregnancy, your body makes more blood.
- Routine blood work can check for anemia.
- Fatigue can have many causes, so lab results matter.
- A provider can recommend the right form and amount if extra iron is needed.
Food sources to know
Iron-rich foods include beans, lentils, iron-fortified cereals, meat, poultry, seafood, tofu, spinach, and pumpkin seeds.
- Pair plant iron sources with vitamin C foods when possible.
- Ask how to handle iron if constipation or nausea is already hard.
- Do not assume more iron is automatically better.
What to ask at a visit
Iron decisions are easier when they are tied to your lab results and symptoms.
- Ask whether your prenatal vitamin includes iron.
- Ask what your recent blood work showed.
- Ask how to take iron if your clinician recommends it.
