A trial of oral iron should be considered as a diagnostic test for all pregnant women
with suspected iron deficiency anaemia (IDA). The haemoglobin should increase
within 2 weeks, otherwise further tests are required.6
Oral iron supplementation is
the primary treatment option. A high iron diet should be recommended, including red
meats (if possible), fortified cereals and drinks.6,7 Intravenous iron should only be
Assessing response to treatment
Repeat FBP 2 – 8/52 following commencement of iron therapy
(Dependent upon gestation)
Hb ↑ continue therapy Hb ↔ review diet, Fe (type/dose),
exclude folate, B12 deficiency (treat as
required). Assess if Hb studies
required/completed. Refer to CNC
Haematology for IV Fe if no
improvement in 2nd/3rd trimester only
Hb ↓clinical review patient, exclude
active bleeding, folate, B12 deficiency
(treat as required). Assess if Hb studies
required/completed. Refer to CNC
Haematology for IV Fe in 2nd/3rd
trimester only
Title: Anaemia in Pregnancy and the Postnatal Period King Edward Memorial Hospital for Women
Clinical Guidelines: Obstetric and Midwifery Perth, Western Australia
2013
All guidelines should be read in conjunction with the Disclaimer at the beginning of this section
Page 2 of 12
used in severe cases of iron deficiency, if the woman is unresponsive to oral iron
treatment, or when rapid repletion of iron is required.2,