Efficacy and Compliance of Oral Iron in Iron Deficiency Anemia in 2nd Trimester Pregnant Females-An Observational Study

Abstract

Background: Iron deficiency anemia (IDA) is a major public health problem among pregnant women, especially in developing countries. It is associated with adverse maternal and fetal outcomes, making effective treatment and compliance essential.

Aim: To evaluate the efficacy and compliance of oral iron therapy in second trimester pregnant females with iron deficiency anemia.

Methods: This observational study included 640 second trimester pregnant women diagnosed with IDA. Hemoglobin, serum iron, and reticulocyte count were assessed before and after oral iron therapy. Compliance was evaluated using pill count, and adverse drug reactions (ADRs) were recorded. Statistical analysis was performed using paired t-test and ANOVA.

Results: A statistically significant improvement was observed in all hematological parameters following therapy (p < 0.000001). Mean hemoglobin increased from 8.59 ± 1.04 g/dL to 10.12 ± 1.10 g/dL, serum iron from 37.59 ± 6.46 µg/dL to 67.70 ± 10.31 µg/dL, and reticulocyte count from 0.37 ± 0.07% to 1.00 ± 0.27%. Approximately 65–69% of participants showed significant response, while 9–11% showed insignificant response. Compliance was highest in the significant response group (89.88 ± 3.25%), with a strong association between adherence and treatment outcome (p < 0.000001). ADRs were mild, with nausea being the most common.

Conclusion: Oral iron therapy is effective, safe, and well tolerated in treating IDA during pregnancy. Compliance plays a crucial role in determining therapeutic success.