Ferrous sulphate

[Beckyv88]

Hi,

I’ve been told I have low iron levels by the midwife however they didn’t tell me the actual level. Doctor prescribed 3x ferrous sulphate tablets per day. Each tablet is 200mg. Seems crazy, especially considering they don’t know my actual level. I only took two today because I’m scared and I’ve tried ringing my midwife to find the level about 10 times today and never get through. It’s really frustrating and worrying. Anyone able to help?

I had bad side effects with that one. I much prefer the liquid iron - spatone. I just buy it myself off amazon

3 tablets a day won't do you or the baby any harm.
I had to have IV iron infusions at 39 weeks as I hadn't raised my iron levels enough through tablets. It's better to be safe than sorry.
If you're concerned stick with 2 a day for now and phone your midwife for the blood results.

That’s a pretty standard dose so I don’t think there’s anything to worry about.

Be prepared for possible side effects though. I’ve had bowel troubles and my poo has been black!

It’s definitely worth taking the tablets to ensure your health and the baby’s health too

I had to take it whilst pregnant and reacted really badly to it

I used an alternative which I bought from Holland and Barrett with the midwives approval and it was fine

I now actually take ferrous sulphate twice a day and no reaction. Still can’t take it 3 times though

Thanks for the responses. Does anyone know if I can also take them with my pregnacare? That has iron too.

Yes you can

These tablets have a bit of a bad reputation but I took 3 a day during my pregnancy and loved them, really improved my energy levels

The gut controls iron absorption. Doses are usually high as not all will be absorbed. Your dose sounds normal - they don't adjust too much for your initial level. If it's low it's low seems to be the most common approach I've encountered. It might cause constipation and make you feel icky. If so talk to your midwife about other forms of iron that would be suitable.