Iron levels not improving despite tablets
Hi I’m currently 36+5 weeks pregnant and have just received my latest iron results from my 36-week check. I’ve been taking ferrous sulphate for the past 2 months (on alternate days), but it doesn’t seem to be working well for me, my ferritin levels have actually dropped from 16 to 14 since last month.
It’s quite frustrating as the tablets have been causing nausea, but I’ve continued taking them as advised. I’m starting to worry now as I’m getting close to delivery, and I’m not sure the tablets will improve things in time. Does the NHS offer iron infusions at this stage if levels aren’t improving? What else can I do?
The views expressed in community are solely the opinions of participants, and do not reflect those of Peanut.
Learn more about our guidelines.
I had an iron infusion on the nhs, I pushed for it quite hard but my midwife organised for me and it made a huge difference for me immediately
I'm 36+6 today and been in the same situation, on Tuesday I saw a consultant and they offered me either an infusion but they said that could take 3 weeks to kick in, or liquid ferrous which they said will work faster, which I've started taking in the last couple of days so perhaps ask if this is also an option? The liquid has been much gentler on my stomach! My iron is currently at 10 despite being on the tablets for months now 🥲
My hosp won’t do infusions unless levels are below 9. I’ve been on 210mg daily since just before Xmas and it’s managed to hold steady at 10. The exhaustion is definitely back though. I take mine first thing with orange juice and a fruit if I can. I did notice that when I switched brands I was getting tummy issues again, so it might be that you need some time to get used to it. We’re nearly there now!!
I started on floradix liquid iron and it worked for improving my iron levels x
Download the Peanut App
