Pregnancy Health Enhancement

(This information complements Preventive Healthcare for Adults and Preventive Healthcare for Women)

Iron deficiency:

The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) recommends screening for iron deficiency in pregnant women without symptoms of anemia (38). Iron deficiency while pregnant may contribute to lower birth weight and may lead to poor mental development of the child (6). Iron supplements should be given to iron deficient pregnant women but excessive iron from supplements can be harmful (6). Vegetarian women are also at higher risk of iron deficiency (7).

Breast feeding:

Breast feeding an infant is highly recommended and supported by the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) instead of using formula or cow’s milk. Look here to find out why. Pump breast milk to provide breast milk to the infant when the mother cannot be with the baby. When breast milk cannot be used for any reason, use a formula with hydrolyzed whey. Look here to find out why: Baby Formula, Breast Feeding, and Nutrition.