Several studies have reported adverse effects of iron
supplements on pregnancy outcomes. Ziaei et al. [23]
reported that SGA birth rate and the number of pregnant
women with hypertension were significantly higher
in the iron-supplemented group (50 mg/d) when compared
with the non-iron-supplemented group (with Hb
level of 132 g/L and above). In their study, no other
differences were observed in the pregnancy outcomes
between both the groups. A randomized trial has revealed
that a higher frequency of infant hospitalization
due to convulsions was observed in the routine iron
supplemented group (100 mg/d) when compared with
the selective iron supplemented group [24]. The selective
iron supplemented group was given iron supplementation
if the hematocrit was < 30% and the mother was diagnosed
to be anemic. These results indicate that a high
dose of general iron prophylaxis without due consideration
about the maternal iron status might have a negative
influence on fetus and infant health.