The effect of iron tablets' side effects on the level of compliance to consuming iron tablets in pregnant woman: A systematic review

Abstract

Iron tablet is one of the methods of preventing iron deficiency anemia during pregnancy. The consequences of ingestion include nausea, vomiting, constipation, diarrhea, epigastric pain, and dark stools. Pregnant women do not continue iron supplementation due to considering the negative effects. This behavior of not continuing to take the iron pills decreases the compliance of pregnant women to iron supplementation. This systematic literature review aims to assess the effect of iron tablets' side effects on the level of compliance to consuming iron tablets in pregnant woman. Four major electronic databases were used to explore a literature search: PubMed, Scopus, ScienceDirect, and Web of Science. There are fifteen eligible studies that fulfil the inclusion criteria. The PRISMA methodology was used to evaluate articles critically. EPHPP's technique for evaluating the quality of quantitative research was used to evaluate the quality of the kinds of literature (Effective Public Health Practice Project). Systematically, the findings are analyzed and summarized. Two main themes are used to classify the findings. Non-compliance and perceived risk to pregnancy can occur as a result of the first ANC visit at more than 16 weeks and less than 4 ANC visits during pregnancy. This is due to the lack of exposure to information and education from health professionals about iron tablets, the advantages of iron tablets, the side effects of iron tablets, and foods and beverages that could inhibit or accelerate the absorption of iron tablets.