IV Iron Treatment in Pregnancy and Post Partum

Safe & Effective Iron Treatment for Expecting and New Mothers

Iron deficiency is a common concern during pregnancy and the postpartum period. Low iron levels can lead to fatigue, dizziness, difficulty concentrating, and even complications such as anemia, which may impact both maternal and fetal health. For women who are unable to tolerate or adequately absorb oral iron supplements, IV iron infusions offer a rapid and effective solution to replenish iron stores.

n Canada, approximately 25-30% of pregnant women develop iron deficiency anemia (IDA), which can lead to fatigue, shortness of breath, dizziness, poor concentration, and increased risk of preterm birth or low birth weight.

​Treating iron deficiency during pregnancy and the postpartum period is crucial due to its significant impact on both maternal and fetal health. Iron deficiency anemia (IDA) has been associated with several adverse outcomes:​

  • Increased Risk of Preterm Birth: IDA is linked to a higher likelihood of preterm labor, which can lead to complications for both mother and baby. ​

  • Higher Incidence of Postpartum Depression: Low iron levels have been associated with an increased risk of postpartum depression, affecting maternal mental health. ​

  • Elevated Rates of Postpartum Fatigue: Anemia during pregnancy can lead to increased fatigue in the postpartum period, impacting the mother's ability to care for her newborn. ​

  • Implications for Fetal Brain Development: Iron deficiency during pregnancy can adversely affect fetal brain development, potentially leading to neurodevelopmental delays. ​PMC

Addressing iron deficiency through appropriate interventions, such as dietary modifications and iron supplementation, is essential to mitigate these risks and promote optimal health outcomes for both mother and child.

Who Can Benefit from IV Iron?

IV iron is recommended for pregnant and postpartum patients who:

  • Have been diagnosed with iron deficiency anemia (IDA)

  • Experience severe fatigue or weakness related to low iron

  • Are unable to tolerate oral iron supplements due to nausea, constipation, or gastrointestinal distress

  • Need rapid iron replenishment to support maternal and fetal health

Why Treating Iron Deficiency is Critical

  • IDA increases the risk of preterm birth by up to 50%

  • Low iron levels are associated with a 3.5x higher risk of postpartum depression

  • Postpartum women with anemia are 4x more likely to experience severe fatigue

  • Iron deficiency affects fetal brain development, increasing the risk of neurodevelopmental delays

How IV Iron Infusions Work

At Unify Health, our internal medicine specialists assess iron levels through bloodwork and determine if IV iron therapy is appropriate. SRX Pharmacy provides IV iron infusions in our space and throughout the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) to ensure accessibility for patients in their second and third trimesters as well as the postpartum period.

Currently, SRX uses Venofer (Iron Sucrose), an established IV iron formulation known for its safety and effectiveness during pregnancy and postpartum recovery.

What to Expect

  • Consultation & Assessment
    Our internists will evaluate your iron levels and symptoms and determine whether IV iron is needed. If appropriate, they will provide a prescription for IV iron therapy.

  • Infusion Process
    IV iron is administered through a slow intravenous drip, typically lasting 30-60 minutes. Most patients require a series of infusions to restore optimal iron levels.

  • Safe & Well-Tolerated
    Venofer is commonly used in pregnancy and is generally well tolerated. Some patients may experience mild side effects such as temporary flushing or dizziness. Serious reactions are rare but can occur.

  • Faster Iron Replenishment
    Unlike oral iron, which can take weeks to improve iron stores, IV iron provides a rapid increase in hemoglobin and ferritin levels, helping patients feel better sooner.

Book an Assessment

If you're pregnant or postpartum and struggling with iron deficiency, Unify Health can help. Please as your family doctor or OB-GYN for a referral if they deem you are in need of assessment.