Table 2.

Risk factors for developing iron deficiency anaemia during pregnancy.

Lifestyle factors

• Vegetarian or vegan diets

• Diets low in haem iron or high in substances impairing iron absorption

Patient factors

• Previous anaemia

• Malabsorptive conditions (e.g. inflammatory bowel disease, coeliac disease)

• Known haemoglobinopathy

• Jehovah’s Witness

Obstetric factors

• Multiparity

• Multiple gestation (e.g. twins)

• High risk of bleeding during pregnancy or during labour

• Short interpregnancy interval (less than 1 year)