What is prenatal anemia screening?
Prenatal anemia screening involves a simple blood test that can identify anemia. This screening is typically done in both the first and second trimester. Screening blood tests measure hemoglobin, the oxygen-carrying molecule. They also calculate hematocrit, the percentage of red blood cells in whole blood. Based on the results of these tests, your doctor may order further tests, such as a complete blood count (CBC) and iron and ferritin levels. A CBC looks at the number, color, size and shape of red blood cells. Iron and ferritin levels can check the amount of iron in the body. These test results would help show anemia and determine its cause and the severity. Will anemia impact my pregnancy? If you have iron deficiency anemia, there is a greater chance that you will have an earlier delivery and/or a smaller baby. Your baby may also be born iron deficient and have problems growing during the first year of life. Vitamin supplements, specifically formulated to meet the increased iron nee
