How do I know if my iron levels are ok?

[moomin35]

After some advice - I keep reading about iron deficiency (I'm 19 weeks) but have no idea what my iron levels are. How do you know or when do you get tested for it?

Generally you will feel shit, lower energy levels than normal, often shortness of breath is a sign as well. Best thing to do is try if you are not sure is to eat lots of iron rich food and a well balanced diet.

Ask your midwife at your next appointment if she can test you, or your gp (possibly a nurse) can do a simple blood test to check. I had both gp & midwife check mine, midwife had results back later the same day, gp took a week.

You'd generally have a routine blood test at about 28 weeks. If you have symptoms of anaemia before that, tell your mw or visit your gp.