From the Research
Dizziness during pregnancy is often caused by underlying conditions such as iron deficiency anemia, which can have significant implications for maternal and fetal health, and therefore, it is crucial to screen for and manage iron deficiency anemia promptly. The most recent and highest quality study on this topic is from 2022, which emphasizes the importance of screening for iron deficiency anemia in pregnancy 1. According to this study, iron deficiency anemia is associated with increased maternal and neonatal morbidity, and serum ferritin is a helpful adjunct for the diagnosis of iron deficiency anemia.
To manage dizziness during pregnancy, it is essential to:
- Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day
- Eat small frequent meals to maintain blood sugar levels
- Avoid standing up too quickly
- Sit or lie down immediately, preferably on your left side to improve blood flow when feeling dizzy
- Avoid hot showers, crowded spaces, and prolonged standing
- Engage in regular light exercise like walking to improve circulation
While most cases of dizziness during pregnancy are harmless, it is essential to contact your healthcare provider if dizziness is:
- Severe
- Persistent
- Accompanied by fainting, visual disturbances, headaches
- Associated with vaginal bleeding or abdominal pain These could indicate more serious conditions like anemia, low blood pressure, or rarely, complications that require medical attention.
The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recommends screening for anemia with a complete blood count in the first trimester and again at 24 0/7 to 28 6/7 weeks of gestation 2. If iron deficiency anemia is diagnosed, first-line treatment is oral iron, and new evidence suggests that intermittent dosing is as effective as daily or twice-daily dosing with fewer side effects 2. For patients who cannot tolerate, cannot absorb, or do not respond to oral iron, intravenous iron is preferred 2, 1.