Question

When maternal blood volume increases, pregnant women receive supplemental iron to prevent anemia, this is because?

a) Iron supports fetal development
b) Iron prevents excessive weight gain
c) Iron deficiency leads to hypertension
d) Iron is essential for increased red blood cell production

Answer 1

During pregnancy, increased blood volume necessitates more red blood cells, which requires iron due to its role in hemoglobin. Iron supplements prevent iron-deficiency anemia, supporting both maternal health and fetal development.

Step-by-step explanation:

When maternal blood volume increases during pregnancy, it is due to the body's preparation for the needs of the growing fetus. This increased demand in blood volume naturally leads to the need for more red blood cells (RBCs) to transport oxygen and nutrients. Since iron is a critical component of hemoglobin, the protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen, sufficient iron is essential for the increased RBC production. Iron deficiency during pregnancy not only affects the mother, leading to anemia, but it can also impact fetal development and result in birth defects or poor growth.

Iron supplements are often prescribed to prevent iron-deficiency anemia in pregnant individuals, a condition characterized by lower than normal levels of hemoglobin in the blood. It's important to monitor and maintain appropriate iron levels, as iron is crucial for both maternal health, ensuring that the mother can support the fetal development, and for the fetus to ensure proper growth and development.