Perception of iron deficiency anemia (IDA)‎ and compliance of iron supplements among pregnant women admitted to the labor ward at King Hussein Medical Centre, Amman, Jordan

Abstract EN

Objective: The main objective of our study was awareness of screening for iron deficiency anemia (IDA) among women adm itted to the labor ward at King Hussein Medical Centre (KHMC), Amman, Jordan.Their compliance with prescribed iron supplement and any side effects of treatment were also assessed.

Methods: The data used in this study was collected from a cross-sectional survey primarily targeting patients admitted to the labor ward at KHMC, Amman during the period between February-August 2016.

A total of 400 Women were interviewed.

A questionnaire was filled after taking the consent of the woman.

Results: Anemia was as high as 40% at booking.

Sixty-three percent of patients were not compliant with treatment.The most common two reasons for non-compliance were nausea (17%) and constipation (13%).

More than half of those treated were still anemic at term.

Conclusion: Anemia is a common problem among our patients.

We should have guidelines and protocols in place for the management of anemia in pregnancy.

More time should be allocated for explaining the risks of anemia, medications and the side effects to ensure compliance.

Serum Ferritin should be measured routinely in all patients with low MCV to confirm the diagnosis of IDA.