The relationship between maternal and cord blood iron status in women and their newborn pairs

Abstract

Background: Iron sufficiency is crucial during the neonatal period. However, it remains unclear whether fetal iron acquisition is primarily driven by fetal demand or limited by maternal iron stores. Previous studies evaluating the relationship between maternal and neonatal iron status have reported inconsistent findings. Aim: To assess the impact of maternal hemoglobin levels on cord blood hemoglobin of newborns and to evaluate the correlation between maternal and neonatal iron status. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted in the Department of Pediatrics, Dr. KNS Memorial Institute of Medical Science, Barabanki, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India, over a period of one year. A total of 110 mother–newborn pairs were enrolled after obtaining ethical approval and written informed consent. Maternal venous blood samples were collected during routine investigations. Cord blood samples were obtained immediately after delivery and prior to placental expulsion. Data were analyzed using Epi Info and Microsoft Excel. Results: The mean age of the mothers was 27.5 ± 4.7 years (range: 19–43 years). Most mothers (63.6%) were multigravida, while 36.4% were primigravida. The mean maternal hemoglobin level was 10.5 ± 1.25 g/dL; among anemic mothers it was 9.3 ± 1 g/dL, and among non-anemic mothers 11.9 ± 2.5 g/dL. The mean maternal serum iron level was 108.8 ± 4.6 µg/dL. Based on severity, 33.9% had mild anemia, 56.6% moderate anemia, and 9.94% severe anemia. The mean cord blood hemoglobin was 15.9 ± 4.3 g/dL, and the mean cord blood iron level was 150.1 ± 8.4 µg/dL. Cord hemoglobin levels were significantly lower in newborns of anemic mothers compared with those of non-anemic mothers (p < 0.01). Conclusion: Maternal iron deficiency may adversely influence neonatal hemoglobin and iron stores. Early detection and timely management of maternal anemia are essential to prevent adverse neonatal outcomes.