TO DETERMINE THE FREQUENCY OF IRON DEFICIENCY ANEMIA AMONG POSTPARTUM WOMEN FROM RURAL AREAS OF KPK

Abstract

Objective: To determine the frequency of iron deficiency anemia among post-partum women coming from rural areas of KPK.

Methods: This study has been conducted in Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Hayatabad Medical Complex for the period of 6months. It was a prospective observational study conducted from 1^st November 2021 to 30^th April 2022.

Results: frequency of iron deficiency anemia among postpartum women was 26.40%. Postpartum iron deficiency anemia was found in patients with high parity as that of patients with low parity. It was significant with parity having p-value=0.044. Patients with regular antenatal visits have less incidence of iron deficiency as compared to un-booked patients, although it was insignificant with p-value=0.507.

No intake of iron supplements antenatally is another factor for iron deficiency anemia in postpartum women as that of women who use the antenatal iron supplements, but it also shows insignificance with p-value=0.086. Similarly, the mode of delivery plays a significant role in postpartum iron deficiency anemia with p-value=0. 021

Conclusion: Our study found a 26.4% prevalence of iron deficiency anemia in post-partum period which can be managed with simple measures as dietary and iron supplements addition in women of child bearing age.