Blood transfusions during pregnancy are necessary if you have these 4 conditions

There are several conditions that make the mother need to have a blood transfusion during pregnancy

1. Have severe iron deficiency anemia

Severe iron deficiency anemia during pregnancy can be fatal. Hemoglobin less than 5 g / dL greatly doubles the risk of death in pregnant women.

That is why if the blood test reading shows your hemoglobin level is below 7 g / dl when the gestational age is 34 weeks and above, your obstetrician will recommend that you get a blood donor.

2. Experiencing thalassemia

Thalassemia is a genetic disease that makes the body unable to produce the perfect form of hemoglobin. A person who has thalassemia needs to get regular blood transfusions. This need then increases if you have thalassemia and are pregnant. The reason is, pregnant women who have thalassemia are at a higher risk of experiencing severe anemia, so they really need blood donations throughout their pregnancy.

3. Experiencing bleeding during pregnancy and childbirth

Heavy bleeding during pregnancy and childbirth is an emergency situation that requires a blood donation as soon as possible.

If you do not get blood transfusions at this critical time to replace lost blood, pregnant women are at risk of dying. Heavy bleeding during pregnancy can be caused by miscarriage, ectopic pregnancy, vaginal infections, problems with the placenta (eg placental abruption), to cervical erosion.

Heavy bleeding can also occur after giving birth, because it is caused by many things - for example uterine atony (the uterus cannot contract properly), retention of the placenta, and blood clotting disorders.

4. Experiencing anemia immediately after giving birth

Mothers who experience anemia immediately after giving birth due to heavy bleeding will receive blood transfusions. However, this will depend on how severe your symptoms are.

Most mothers will receive blood donations immediately after delivery, while others are advised to do bed rest first. If the symptoms get worse, such as severe dizziness and shortness of breath (shortness of breath), the doctor will perform a blood transfusion as soon as possible.

Pregnant women need enough blood to meet the growth and development of the fetus and their own health. But before you decide to get a blood transfusion while pregnant, make sure you have all the information you need about your condition and the blood transfusion procedure during pregnancy. If you are still in doubt, try to ask your gynecologist again.