Frequency & Awareness Regarding Anemia in Pregnant Females

Abstract

Objective: This study was designed to find out the frequency of anemia in pregnancy, its causes and the level of its awareness among  pregnant females.

Methodology: A prospective and descriptive study, conducted at obstetrical OPDs of Chaudhry Muhammad Akram  Teaching & Research Hospital, Raiwind road, Lahore & Surayya Azeem teaching hospital, Lahore. Detailed history, clinical examination and  laboratory investigations including hemoglobin estimation, leukocyte counts, red blood cells morphology & indices along with abdominal  ultrasonography were carried out. A set of questions were asked to know the awareness regarding anemia in pregnancy.

Results: four  hundred pregnant females with average maternal age of 26.7 years were included in this study. Multiparity rate was 86%. Forty four percent  women presented in the third trimester. Thirty five (35%) percent women had hemoglobin level more than 11.0 gm/dl, 50% between 8 to  10.9 gm/dl, and 15% below 8 gm/dl. Eighty three percent of anemic pregnant females had microcytic hypochromic picture.

Conclusion:  anemia during pregnancy is mostly preventable or treatable so morbidities and mortalities due to anemia should be avoided