Newly Pregnant and Low Ferritin Serum Level

Hello everyone,

I just found out that I am pregnant last week.  I am 5w3days and my ferritin serum level is 9.  The normal range is 18 - 291.  I guess this explains why I have been having sudden dizziness and fatigue.  Has anyone else had this issue?  How was it treated?

Thanks!

I have this problem (however not so far while pregnant) and generally go in once a year and end up getting Iron Infusions. 

Actually, ferritin range begins at 11 for most lab tests, so 9 is not horrible.

Additionally, unless your hct and hgb are compromised, your ferritin will not affect your energy levels.  If your hct and hgb are normal, then something else is up as we don't *feel* ferritin.  I have had a 7 for over a year, and can't tell cause my other numbers are within range.

The sudden dizziness and fatigue is very common this early in pregnancy due to the body creating a larger blood volume to nourish the fetus.  Low BP is very common in pregnancy.

I had gone in Sept. of 08 for my yearly blood tests and found out that my ferritin level was a six.  I found out I was pregnant and have been taking 2 iron pills along with my prenatal vitimins.  I have to take vitimin C and 2 stool softners.  I am now 35 weeks pregnant and my iron seems to be o.k.  I haven't had it checked since then.  The specialist said that I will have to stay on my iron for 6 months after the baby is born.  I am having a c-section so I imagine the loss of blood will be a factor as well.  My blood pressure runs really low so I feel dizzy and light headed alot.  At the beginning of the pregnancy I was dizzy a lot.  With you having had bariactric surgery you will have to eat more often.  Also, check your B12.  Good luck and God bless, Penni

Thanks ladies for responding!  I had a consultation with my OB yesterday and she wasn't too concerned about my low Ferritin serum level since my other Iron levels are good.  She just wants me to take my prenatals and we will keep an eye  on it.