Factors associated with inadequate iron stores in women in the first trimester of pregnancy

Abstract

Introduction: Low levels of serum ferritin in pregnancy are associated with inadequate iron stores, which can cause anemia and increase the risk of maternal mortality, premature delivery, and long-term deficiencies in the cognitive development of the newborn. Objective: To determine the relationship between demographic, economic, family and food security factors with inadequate iron stores in women in the first trimester of pregnancy. Methods: Descriptive cross-sectional study with 664 women in the first trimester of pregnancy. Inadequate iron stores were defined as a serum ferritin concentration <30 μg / L. The chi-square test was estimated, crude and adjusted odds ratios were calculated using binary logistic regression. Results: The proportion of women with inadequate iron stores was 32%, geometric average of ferritin 39.2 μg/L (rank 38.4-40.0 μg/L). Pregnant women who did not want a pregnancy were 1.1 times more likely to have inadequate iron stores compared to those who did (OR= 2.10; 95% CI 1.18-3.74). Food insecurity increased the probability of having inadequate iron stores by 47% (OR= 1.47; 95% CI: 1.02-2.13). Family support reduced the probability of inadequate iron stores by 61% (OR= 0.39; 95% CI 0.19-0.78). Conclusion: One in three women presented inadequate levels of serum ferritin, which was mainly associated with socioeconomic and family factors, this suggests the need to consider other non-clinical aspects in the interventions carried out before pregnancy to improve iron stores.