Introduction: Iron deficiency anaemia is a commonly diagnosed condition in women during pregnancy. It is a result of the decrease in iron and the increased need for it; it can also be caused by certain diseases (malabsorption, for example), bleeding and a poor diet in pregnant women. Moreover, it is one of the reasons for adverse outcome of pregnancies. Purpose: The aim of the paper is to describe iron deficiency anaemia, determine characteristics of pregnant women who are more prone to anaemia and portray its consequences for pregnant women and their foetus. We want to present how important it is that healthcare workers raise awareness among pregnant women about iron deficiency anaemia. Methods: The descriptive work method was used. Suitable literature sources were obtained in the CINAHL, Medline, PubMed, Science Direct and dLib databases, using keywords related to iron deficiency anaemia, social determinants for health, quality of life, pregnancy outcome and prevention. The literature overview comprised sources written in English and Slovene and published between the years 2011 and 2020. A more detailed overview included 18 original scientific articles. Results: Iron deficiency anaemia is common in cases of unplanned pregnancy, pregnant women with a low socioeconomic status, a low education background, a history of excessive menstrual bleeding, a poor diet or symptoms of depression. Due to anaemia, adverse outcomes in pregnancy may occur, such as premature delivery, low birth weight, increased risk of infection and even neonatal death. Consequences of anaemia during pregnancy, such as restless leg syndrome, postpartum bleeding, postpartum anaemia, postpartum depression and increased risk of blood transfusion, are also observed in the postpartum period. Healthcare workers should assume the main role in an effort to prevent iron deficiency anaemia or reduce its prevalence, as they could raise awareness among pregnant women, advise them and provide them support. Discussion and conclusion: Anaemia during pregnancy affects pregnant women's health and pregnancy outcome, and it increases the risk of complications in the postpartum period. Healthcare workers should be provided pregnant women with individual and comprehensive antenatal care, informing them about ways to decrease the risk of iron deficiency anaemia, such as a good diet and the consumption of iron supplements in the event of iron deficiency.
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