The current WHO recommendations (http://www.who.int/maternal_child_adolescent/
documents/924159084x/en/index.html) include provision of iron and folic acid for at least
three months after birth. The panel noted that there is currently no evidence to change
this recommendation, and that WHO is working on developing a specific guideline for
maternal nutrition interventions after birth. The panel recommended continuing with the
existing WHO recommendations for iron and folic acid supplementation after birth while
awaiting the final recommendations arising from the consultations on maternal nutrition
interventions.
Balance of benefits and harms: Anaemia is a common problem during and after pregnancy,
especially in settings with high maternal mortality rates. The potential benefit of iron and
folic acid supplementation in reducing the burden of ill health associated with anaemia in
these settings is likely to outweigh the risk of major harmful side effects.
Values and preferences: Some women experience unpleasant side effects with oral iron
supplements, but these are not life threatening. Policy-makers value the importance
of prevention and treatment of anaemia in countries where nutritional deficiencies are
common.
Costs: Nutritional supplements carry costs, albeit relatively small.