Your Best Guide on How to Increase Haemoglobin Naturally During Pregnancy  

Introduction

Reduced haemoglobin levels are among the most common health concerns experienced during pregnancy¹.  

While a small decline is sometimes common, significantly low haemoglobin levels may indicate nutritional deficiencies that require attention. If left unmanaged, low haemoglobin can increase the risk of weakened immunity, preterm delivery, low birth weight, and complications during childbirth for both the mother and the baby².

The good news is that haemoglobin levels can often be improved naturally with the right diet, lifestyle habits, and proper prenatal care¹.  

In this blog, we will explore what haemoglobin is, why it is important during pregnancy, the common causes and symptoms of low haemoglobin, and the best natural ways to boost haemoglobin levels safely and effectively during pregnancy. 

What Is Haemoglobin?

Haemoglobin is an iron-rich protein found in red blood cells that carries oxygen from the lungs to all parts of the body. It also helps transport carbon dioxide back to the lungs so it can be removed from the body. 

During pregnancy, haemoglobin plays an especially important role because both the mother and the growing baby need an increased supply of oxygen and nutrients. Adequate haemoglobin levels help support the baby’s growth and development while also maintaining the mother’s energy levels and overall health³.

Why Haemoglobin Levels Drop During Pregnancy?

A drop in haemoglobin levels during pregnancy is quite common and can occur for several reasons. Some common causes of low haemoglobin in pregnancy include: 

• Increased Blood Volume: During pregnancy, the body produces more blood to support the growing baby and placenta. However, the increase in plasma (the liquid part of blood) is greater than the increase in red blood cells. This could cause the blood to become diluted, leading to a lower haemoglobin concentration⁴. While this is normal, severe cases need medical attention. 
• Increased Iron Requirements: Iron is needed for the production of haemoglobin. During pregnancy, the body needs much more iron to⁵:
  • Support the baby’s growth and development 
  • Increase maternal blood supply 
  • Prepare for blood loss during delivery 

If dietary iron intake is insufficient, iron stores could become depleted, resulting in iron deficiency that could lead to low haemoglobin levels. 

• Folate and Vitamin B12 Deficiency: Folate and vitamin B12 are important for the formation of healthy red blood cells. Deficiency of these nutrients during pregnancy could reduce red blood cell production and contribute to low haemoglobin levels⁶.
• Frequent Pregnancies: Women with closely spaced pregnancies may not have enough time to replenish their iron stores after childbirth, making them more vulnerable to low haemoglobin levels in subsequent pregnancies⁷.
• Inherited Disorders: Red blood cell disorders are a major cause of low haemoglobin levels. These include α- and β-thalassemia (caused by defects in haemoglobin production), sickle cell disorders (caused by abnormal haemoglobin structure), other haemoglobin gene disorders, enzyme deficiencies affecting red blood cells, and abnormalities of the red blood cell membrane¹.
• Infections: Infections such as malaria, tuberculosis, human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), and parasitic infections (like schistosomiasis, hookworm infection) can also cause low haemoglobin levels. These conditions may reduce the body’s ability to absorb nutrients, lead to blood loss, or affect the production and survival of red blood cells¹.

Symptoms of Low Haemoglobin in Pregnancy

Low levels of haemoglobin in pregnancy can affect the body’s ability to supply enough oxygen to tissues and organs, often leading to low energy levels and reduced physical stamina. The signs are often mild in the early stages, but they can gradually become more noticeable. Common symptoms include: 

• Persistent tiredness or unusual fatigue 
• Feeling weak or lacking energy 
• Dizziness or light-headedness 
• Frequent headaches 
• Cold hands and feet 
• Shortness of breath (especially during physical activity) 
• Difficulty concentrating or feeling mentally exhausted¹ 
• Loss of hair (more than normal) 
• Pica (craving to eat items that are not food, like paper) 
• Heart palpitations (racing heart)⁸ 

Risk Factors for Low Haemoglobin

Certain women are more likely to develop low haemoglobin levels during pregnancy due to nutritional, lifestyle, or health-related factors. These risk factors include: 

• Family history of anaemia (low levels of healthy red blood cells)⁹ 
• Severe morning sickness affecting food intake 
• Carrying twins or multiple babies 
• Closely spaced pregnancies 
• Heavy menstrual bleeding before conception¹⁰ 
• Limited intake of iron-rich foods 
• Chronic medical conditions (such as infections, inflammation) affecting overall health¹
• Increased nutritional demands during pregnancy⁵ 

Haemoglobin Range During Pregnancy

Haemoglobin levels naturally fluctuate during pregnancy due to increased blood volume and the growing needs of the baby. The table below helps to understand the haemoglobin normal range in pregnancy^11,12:

Note:  

• Low haemoglobin levels indicating anaemia during pregnancy can increase the risk of fatigue, weakness, preterm birth, excessive bleeding after delivery and in severe cases, maternal mortality².
• Low haemoglobin levels during pregnancy may also affect the baby and increase the risk of poor foetal growth (intrauterine growth restriction), stress to the baby before or during birth (foetal distress), premature birth, complications around the time of delivery, and long-term developmental problems¹².  
• High haemoglobin levels may be associated with poor plasma volume expansion, or complications such as preterm birth, low birth weight, and gestational diabetes (high blood sugar levels during pregnancy)¹³. 

The severity of anaemia is determined based on haemoglobin levels as shown below¹¹.

Haemoglobin test results should always be interpreted by a doctor in combination with symptoms and individual medical history. 

How Are Haemoglobin Levels Diagnosed

Low levels of haemoglobin in pregnancy are usually detected during routine prenatal blood tests. Common diagnostic tests used are: 

• Complete Blood Count (CBC): Measures haemoglobin levels, red blood cell count, and Mean Corpuscular Volume (MCV)³. Low MCV may indicate iron deficiency and help identify anaemia type¹⁴. 
• Peripheral Blood Smear: Examines the size, shape, and appearance of red blood cells to detect abnormalities. It may also help identify anaemia type^3,15.
• Iron Studies: Includes serum ferritin and serum iron tests to check for iron deficiency and identify anaemia type^3,16.
• Haemoglobin Variant Testing: Helps identify inherited blood disorders such as thalassemia and sickle cell disease³.
• Genetic/DNA Testing: Detects mutations linked to haemoglobin disorders when needed³.

How to Increase Haemoglobin During Pregnancy Naturally

Maintaining healthy haemoglobin levels during pregnancy is important for both maternal health and the baby’s growth and development. Thus, understanding how to increase haemoglobin during pregnancy is important for supporting the health of both the mother and the growing baby. Here are some natural ways that can help: 

1. Eating Foods Rich in Iron, Folate and Vitamin B12

Food items naturally rich in these nutrients help to boost haemoglobin levels. Some foods to increase haemoglobin during pregnancy include¹:

• Lean red meat, chicken, and fish 
• Dark green leafy vegetables 
• Lentils, beans, and pulses 
• Iron-fortified cereals and whole grains 
• Brown rice 
• Eggs (well-cooked during pregnancy) 
• Dried fruits such as raisins, prunes, and dried apricots 

2. Increasing Vitamin C Intake

Vitamin C helps the body absorb iron more effectively. Try to include vitamin C-rich foods with meals, including^1,17:

• Oranges and citrus fruits  
• Tomatoes 
• Bell peppers 
• Broccoli 
• Potatoes 

3. Avoiding Foods That Reduce Iron Absorption

Certain foods and beverages can interfere with iron absorption if consumed with iron-rich meals. Limit or avoid^1,17:

• Tea and coffee 
• Cocoa and chocolate 
• Milk  
• Excess bran or high-fibre cereals 
• Calcium-rich foods or supplements taken together with iron 

Tip: If taking calcium and iron supplements, take them at different times of the day. 

4. Maintaining Proper Eating Habits

While taste sensitivity may be high in pregnancy and symptoms such as nausea and vomiting may occur associated with food, it’s still important to maintain a healthy and balanced diet, eat regularly and not skip any meals to avoid the risk of nutrient deficiencies. 

5. Preventing Infections

Some infections (such as malaria) can contribute to low haemoglobin levels. Maintaining good hygiene, washing hands regularly, and seeking prompt treatment for infections could help reduce the risk¹.

6. Attending Regular Prenatal Check-Ups

Routine antenatal visits and blood tests help monitor haemoglobin levels and allow early detection and management of low haemoglobin levels during pregnancy. 

Note: Dietary changes can support healthy haemoglobin levels, but persistent or severe low haemoglobin levels (or moderate to severe anaemia) should always be evaluated and treated under medical supervision. 

Treatment Options to Boost Haemoglobin During Pregnancy

Treatment for low haemoglobin during pregnancy depends on the severity and its underlying cause. Along with dietary changes, doctors may recommend medical treatment to restore healthy haemoglobin levels and support maternal and foetal health. 

1. Iron Supplements

Oral iron supplements are commonly prescribed to manage iron deficiency during pregnancy¹⁷. These help increase red blood cell production and improve haemoglobin levels over time.  

Note: Iron supplements may sometimes cause side effects such as upset stomach, constipation, nausea, reduced appetite, and dark-coloured stools¹⁷. Therefore, they should only be taken under a doctor’s guidance and in the recommended dosage. 

2. Folic Acid and Vitamin B12 Supplements

If low haemoglobin levels are linked to folate or vitamin B12 deficiency, appropriate supplements may be recommended to support healthy red blood cell formation^1,6. Vegetarian women may especially require vitamin B12 supplementation during pregnancy, as plant-based diets may not provide adequate amounts of this nutrient¹⁸.

3. Intravenous (IV) Iron Therapy

In cases of moderate to severe low haemoglobin levels (or moderate anaemia), poor absorption, or intolerance to oral iron, intravenous iron therapy may be advised for faster correction of iron deficiency¹⁷. 

4. Deworming

In areas where worm infections and anaemia are common, doctors may recommend deworming treatment after the first trimester of pregnancy to help reduce the risk of anaemia caused by parasitic infections¹⁹. This should only be taken under medical supervision. 

5. Treatment of Underlying Conditions

If low haemoglobin levels are caused by chronic diseases (such as obesity) or inherited blood disorders (such as thalassemia), additional treatment and specialist care may be required¹.

6. Blood Transfusion

Very low haemoglobin levels or serious symptoms may occasionally require blood transfusion¹⁷.

7. Regular Monitoring

Early antenatal registration and regular trimester-wise haemoglobin monitoring are important for the early detection, prevention, and management of anaemia during pregnancy²⁰. Doctors may repeat blood tests during pregnancy to monitor haemoglobin levels and assess response to treatment.  

Note: Pregnant women should avoid self-medicating with any supplements or injections and always follow medical advice regarding dosage and treatment duration. 

When to See a Doctor?

When haemoglobin levels become significantly low, symptoms may become more serious and require immediate medical attention. These may include¹: 

• Pale skin, lips, gums, or nail beds 
• Rapid heartbeat or fast breathing 
• Feeling faint or dizzy when standing up suddenly 
• Increased weakness and exhaustion 
• Easy bruising or delayed recovery from minor injuries 

Since many symptoms of low haemoglobin levels can resemble normal pregnancy-related tiredness, regular prenatal check-ups and blood tests are important for early detection and proper management. 

Also Read: Double Marker vs. Triple Marker Test: Differences, Timing, Results & How They Work Together

Conclusion

Maintaining healthy haemoglobin levels during pregnancy is essential for the well-being of both the mother and the growing baby. While a mild drop in haemoglobin is common due to normal physiological changes, significantly low levels should not be ignored, as they may lead to pregnancy-related complications. 

A balanced diet rich in iron, folate, vitamin B12, and vitamin C, along with regular prenatal check-ups, can help support healthy haemoglobin levels naturally. Keep in mind that early diagnosis, proper nutrition, and timely address play an important role in preventing complications and ensuring a healthier pregnancy journey. 

Since every pregnancy is different, haemoglobin levels and treatment needs should always be evaluated by a doctor. With the right care and monitoring, most cases of low haemoglobin during pregnancy can be effectively managed. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

References

1. Anaemia. Accessed May 12, 2026. https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/anaemia

2. Obeagu GU, Obeagu EI. Complications of anemia in pregnancy: An updated overview for healthcare professionals. Medicine (Baltimore). 2025;104(35):e44246. doi:10.1097/MD.0000000000044246 https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC12401385/

3. Farid Y, Bowman NS, Lecat P. Biochemistry, Hemoglobin Synthesis. In: StatPearls. StatPearls Publishing; 2026. Accessed May 12, 2026. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK536912/ 

4. Soma-Pillay P, Catherine NP, Tolppanen H, Mebazaa A, Tolppanen H, Mebazaa A. Physiological changes in pregnancy. Cardiovasc J Afr. 2016;27(2):89-94. doi:10.5830/CVJA-2016-021 https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC12401385/

5. Georgieff MK. Iron Deficiency in Pregnancy. Am J Obstet Gynecol. 2020;223(4):516-524. doi:10.1016/j.ajog.2020.03.006 https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32184147/

6. Tefera AA, Seifu D, Menon M, Talargia F, Belete AM. Red blood cell folate level and associated factors of folate insufficiency among pregnant women attending antenatal care during their first trimester of pregnancy in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. SAGE Open Med. 2022;10:20503121221118987. doi:10.1177/20503121221118987 https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9424885/

7. Feyissa TR, Chojenta C, Hassen TA, et al. Short birth/pregnancy interval and its association with adverse maternal outcomes in Asia Pacific region: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Midwifery. 2025;144:104342. doi:10.1016/j.midw.2025.104342 https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39986113/

8. Iron deficiency anaemia. nhs.uk. October 23, 2017. Accessed May 13, 2026. https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/iron-deficiency-anaemia/ 

9. Anemia – Causes and Risk Factors | NHLBI, NIH. December 18, 2025. Accessed May 12, 2026. https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/anemia/causes 

10. Anemia and Pregnancy. Accessed May 12, 2026. https://www.hematology.org/education/patients/anemia/pregnancy 

11. Moghaddam Tabrizi F, Barjasteh S. Maternal Hemoglobin Levels during Pregnancy and their Association with Birth Weight of Neonates. Iran J Pediatr Hematol Oncol. 2015;5(4):211-217. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26985354/

12. Obeagu GU, Obeagu EI. Complications of anemia in pregnancy: An updated overview for healthcare professionals. Medicine (Baltimore). 2025;104(35):e44246. doi:10.1097/MD.0000000000044246 https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC12401385/ 

13. Wu L, Sun R, Liu Y, et al. High hemoglobin level is a risk factor for maternal and fetal outcomes of pregnancy in Chinese women: A retrospective cohort study. BMC Pregnancy Childbirth. 2022;22:290. doi:10.1186/s12884-022-04636-9 https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35387646/

14. Maner BS, Killeen RB, Moosavi L. Mean Corpuscular Volume. In: StatPearls. StatPearls Publishing; 2026. Accessed May 13, 2026. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK545275/ 

15. Phukan J, Kawsar H, Banerjee J, Sinha A. A comparative study of anemia in peripheral blood smear and automated cell counter generated red cell parameters. Iraqi J Hematol. 2022;11(1):51. doi:10.4103/ijh.ijh_3_22 https://www.researchgate.net/publication/361168554_A_comparative_study_of_anemia_in_peripheral_blood_smear_and_automated_cell_counter_generated_red_cell_parameters

16. Iron Tests: MedlinePlus Medical Test. Accessed May 13, 2026. https://medlineplus.gov/lab-tests/iron-tests/

17. Preventing and treating anaemia during pregnancy. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5885006/

18. Rizzo G, Laganà AS, Rapisarda AMC, et al. Vitamin B12 among Vegetarians: Status, Assessment and Supplementation. Nutrients. 2016;8(12):767. doi:10.3390/nu8120767 https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27916823/

19. Deworming in pregnant women. Accessed May 13, 2026. https://www.who.int/tools/elena/interventions/deworming-pregnancy 

20. NHSRC Guidelines AC.indb. Accessed May 13, 2026. https://nhm.gov.in/images/pdf/programmes/maternal-health/guidelines/sba_guidelines_for_skilled_attendance_at_birth.pdf 

21. Balasubramani SP, Varghese RK, Vishnuprasad CN, Venkatasubramanian P. Pomegranate Juice Enhances Iron Dialysability and Assimilation in In-Vitro Cell Free and Cell-Based Models. Plant Foods Hum Nutr. 2020;75(2):272-278. doi:10.1007/s11130-020-00815-1  https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32333242/

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