Anaemia in pregnancy

Frayne J¹, Pinchon D².

^{1 MBBS, RANZCOG, FRACGP, MMed (Women@s health), GCIM, GP Obstetrician, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, King Edward Memorial Hospital, Subiaco, WA; Senior Lecturer, PhD candidate, School of Primary, Aboriginal and Rural Health Care, University of Western Australia, WA.}

^{2 RN, PGcert, MSc(Dist), Clinical Nurse Consultant Haematology, King Edward Memorial Hospital, Subiaco, WA.}

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Anaemia in pregnancy is a common medical condition managed by general practitioners (GPs) in Australia.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this article is to raise awareness of anaemia that occurs in pregnancy, understand its increasing complexities with an expanding migrant population identify at-risk groups and promote appropriate management.

DISCUSSION: With anaemia reportedly occurring in 25% of women in pregnancy and GPs managing the majority of preconception and early pregnancy care, it is important to have a sound understanding of the aetiology, risks and management options. While iron deficiency anaemiais most commonly seen, a more complex understanding in regard to other causes and haemoglobinopathy screening is required.