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My Mentzer's index is 21. Will it affect my baby?

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Patient's Query

Hi,

I am 5 months pregnant, and my reports say that Mentzer's index is 21. Will it affect my baby?

Kindly help.

Answered by Dr. Nadia Khan

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

A Mentzer index of 21 means that you have iron deficiency anemia. Yes, it can affect your baby in certain ways if you do not seek medical advice. Anemia may lead to smaller babies, growth-restricted babies, and also preterm labor (labor before the due date), which can result in delivering a baby earlier and complications associated with early delivery.

Also, a woman who is anemic may suffer excessive bleeding after delivery. So, I would suggest you see your local doctor, check the level of anemia, and get appropriate treatment for that.

I hope it has helped you.

Answered byDr. Nadia Khan

Medically reviewed byDr. Hemalatha

Published At April 29, 2019
Reviewed AtFebruary 12, 2026

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

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Dr. Nadia Khan

Obstetrics and Gynecology

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