Thyroid Status, Iron, Folic Acid and Vitamin B12 Levels in Pregnancy

Abstract

Background & objectives: The role of iron deficiency with thyroid status in pregnancy was not studied in detail. Therefore, in this study, we assessed the levels of iron, folic acid, vitamin B 12, thyroid function and its association with iron levels in first trimester of pregnancy. Materials and methods: Forty pregnant women who didn't start any supplementation were recruited from the obstetrics & gynecology out patient department. Forty age matched controls were recruited from the residents and staff of the hospital. Thyroid profile, iron, folic acid and vitamin B12 levels were measured in both the groups. The association was seen between iron levels and thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) levels. Results: Levels of iron, folic acid, vitamin B12 are significantly low in first trimester pregnant women. Further, the increased TSH levels are negatively correlated with low iron levels. Conclusion: Screening of iron, folic acid and vitamin B12 levels in first trimester itself will be beneficial to prevent the complications of pregnancy. Further, hypothyroidism also present and associated with iron deficiency. So, early diagnosis of these deficiencies will be useful to start giving supplements to avoid unwanted effects in pregnancy.