Postpartum Anemia: Causes, Symptoms and Treatment

As a new mother, you've just gone through one of the most intense, life-changing experiences imaginable. And now, as you focus on caring for your newborn, it's easy to overlook how your body is recovering. One common condition that many new mothers experience yet don't always recognize is anemia, particularly in the postpartum period.

In this blog, we'll explore what postpartum anemia is, why breastfeeding mothers are prone to it, and how you can manage it to stay strong and healthy during this crucial time.

What is Postpartum Anemia?

Postpartum anemia occurs when your red blood cells or hemoglobin levels are lower than they should be after giving birth. While it's normal to feel tired after delivery, anemia can make that fatigue overwhelming. Blood loss during childbirth, combined with factors like poor nutrition, insufficient intake of iron-rich foods, or pre-existing iron deficiency, can all contribute to this condition.

For breastfeeding mothers, restoring iron levels is especially important. Iron plays a critical role in maintaining your energy, mood, and overall wellbeing as you care for both yourself and your baby.*

Why are Breastfeeding Moms Prone to Anemia?

Many new moms wonder why they feel so worn out even after getting some sleep. Often, anemia is the answer. Here's why breastfeeding mothers are more likely to develop anemia:

• Blood Loss During Childbirth: If you experienced significant blood loss during delivery, your iron levels could have taken a major hit. This drop in hemoglobin leaves your body struggling to recover.
• Increased Nutritional Demands: Breastfeeding requires more from your body than you might think. Not only are you producing milk for your baby, but your body is also trying to rebuild its iron stores, which can lead to iron deficiency anemia if not addressed.
• Pre-existing Iron Deficiency: If you were already low in iron during pregnancy, you're at a higher risk of continuing that deficiency after giving birth.

This condition affects more than just your energy levels. Anemia can impact your mood, reduce your ability to bond with your baby, and, if left untreated, lead to longer-term health complications. But don't worry, we've got practical solutions for you —and we'll get into those in a moment.

How Do You Know If You Have Iron Deficiency Anemia?

It's easy to attribute exhaustion to the normal stresses of new motherhood, but certain symptoms can signal postpartum anemia. Here are some signs that you might be low on iron:

• Constant Fatigue: Feeling drained no matter how much rest or sleep you get.
• Shortness of Breath: Finding it harder to breathe, even when doing simple tasks like walking up stairs.
• Pale Skin: A paler complexion, especially noticeable in the face or lips.
• Dizziness: Feeling lightheaded or faint more often than usual.
• Cold Hands and Feet: Anemia can affect circulation, making your extremities feel colder than normal.
• Irritability: Feeling more frustrated or overwhelmed than usual.
• Headaches: Frequent headaches that just won’t go away.
• Weakness: Struggling with tasks that used to feel easy.
• Increased Heart Rate or Palpitations: If you notice your heart racing or irregular heartbeats, this could be a sign that your body's working overtime to get oxygen to your tissues.

These symptoms are often subtle and can be mistaken for other postpartum challenges, so it’s important to pay attention to how you feel over time.

How long does Postpartum Anemia last?

Recovery from postpartum anemia varies depending on factors like the severity of blood loss during childbirth, dietary habits, and other underlying health conditions. If treated early, most mothers start feeling better within a couple of months. However, if left untreated, anemia can linger, making recovery and everyday tasks more difficult.

The best way to speed up recovery is to listen to your body, eat iron-rich foods, and ensure you're getting the nutrients you need to support your healing.

How Does Anemia Impact Breastfeeding and Future Pregnancies?

Anemia isn't just about feeling tired—it can impact your overall well-being and even how you connect with your baby. Low iron levels can leave you feeling more irritable or anxious and, in some cases, more vulnerable to postpartum depression.

Extreme tiredness makes breastfeeding and bonding more difficult, and if anemia goes untreated, it can put you at a higher risk of developing it again in future pregnancies. That's why early detection and treatment are essential.

How to Prevent and Treat Postpartum Anemia?

1. Eat Iron-Rich Foods

• Heme Iron: Found in fish, poultry, and red meat, this type of iron is more easily absorbed by the body.
• Non-Heme Iron: Foods like dark green vegetables, pulses, and dried fruit contain non-heme iron, which isn’t absorbed as easily but is still important.

2. Boost Iron Absorption with Vitamin C

Pairing iron-rich foods with Vitamin C can improve how much iron your body absorbs. Drinking a glass of orange juice or eating Vitamin C-rich fruits like strawberries or kiwi alongside your meals can help.

3. Avoid Iron Inhibitors

Some foods and drinks, like tea and coffee, contain compounds called polyphenols that can reduce your body’s ability to absorb iron. It’s a good idea to avoid having these around mealtime. Additionally, antacids and certain medications can interfere with iron absorption, so check with your healthcare provider if you’re taking any medications.

4. Stay Properly Hydrated

Staying well-hydrated supports your body’s healing process and boosts milk production. If you find plain water boring, try incorporating a multivitamin drink like Root’d to your daily routine. Its powdered form makes it easy to mix into your morning smoothie or favorite mocktail, offering a fun and tasty way to upgrade your hydration while also giving your body essential nutrients like iron, electrolytes, and other vitamins and minerals—all without the added sugars found in other hydration drinks.

5. Talk to your midwife or healthcare provider

It’s always a good idea to talk to your doctor or midwife about any concerns, especially if you suspect anemia. They can refer you for a blood test to check your iron levels and guide you toward the right supplements if necessary.

Can You Take Iron Supplements while Breastfeeding?

If you were anemic during pregnancy or after giving birth, then yes. Many prenatal vitamins contain enough iron to support your diet, and it's often recommended to continue taking these vitamins for about 6 to 8 weeks after giving birth, especially if you're breastfeeding. During this time, your body is still adjusting, and it may take some time for your iron levels to return to normal.

While iron is necessary, not all iron supplements are the same. Some forms can cause digestive discomfort; that's why it's important to choose a high-quality, gentle form of iron. At Root'd, we use Ferrous Bisglycinate Chelate, a highly absorbable form of iron that provides effective support without the common side effects like nausea or constipation. *

In cases of severe anemia or significant blood loss during labor, your healthcare provider might recommend iron infusions or even a blood transfusion to help prevent further complications. It's also important to advocate for yourself and ask for a follow-up blood test to make sure the iron supplements are working. If your levels are still low, it could indicate an underlying issue like celiac disease, which can affect iron absorption.

Final Thoughts

Postpartum anemia can feel tough, especially when you're breastfeeding, but with the right care and nutrients, you'll bounce back and feel like yourself again. Listen to your body, eat well, stay hydrated, and lean on support when you need it.

Root'd Prenatal Multi isn't just for pregnancy—it supports you postpartum too, so there's no need to switch to postnatal vitamins. Our multivitamin drink, packed with bioavailable iron and essential nutrients, helps replenish your iron levels and restore your energy—one sip at a time.

Ready to feel your best? Try Root'd today and get back on track to feeling like yourself again! Use code FIGHT-ANEMIA for 15% off + free shipping on your first order.