Anaemia in Pregnancy in Kenya – Causes, Dangers, Diet, and Natural Remedies

Anaemia in pregnancy is one of the most common yet overlooked health challenges facing expectant mothers in Kenya. Characterized by low levels of red blood cells or haemoglobin, anaemia can cause fatigue, breathlessness, poor fetal growth, and even maternal death if left untreated. In rural and urban Kenya alike, thousands of women suffer from preventable anaemia due to poor diet, infections, or lack of awareness.

What Is Anaemia in Pregnancy?

Anaemia occurs when a woman doesn’t have enough healthy red blood cells to carry oxygen throughout her body and to her baby. During pregnancy, your blood volume increases by about 50%, which raises your iron and folate needs. If you don’t get enough, anaemia can develop quickly.

Types of Anaemia in Pregnant Women

• Iron-deficiency anaemia – the most common in Kenya, caused by lack of dietary iron.
• Folate-deficiency anaemia – caused by low intake of folic acid, vital for fetal growth.
• Vitamin B12 deficiency anaemia – more common in strict vegetarians or women with absorption issues.
• Sickle cell anaemia – a genetic disorder more common among people of African descent.

Causes of Anaemia in Pregnant Women in Kenya

• Low iron intake – due to poverty or lack of awareness about iron-rich foods.
• Frequent pregnancies – especially with short gaps between births.
• Malaria infections – destroy red blood cells, increasing anaemia risk.
• Hookworm infections – common in regions with poor sanitation.
• Bleeding – during pregnancy, labor, or after delivery.
• Folic acid deficiency – due to inadequate diet or poor absorption.

Signs and Symptoms

• Extreme tiredness or weakness
• Pale skin, lips, or nails
• Shortness of breath, even at rest
• Dizziness or lightheadedness
• Fast heartbeat
• Headaches
• Cold hands and feet

Why Anaemia Is Dangerous for Pregnant Women

If left untreated, anaemia can lead to severe health problems for both mother and child. These include:

• Increased risk of premature delivery
• Low birth weight baby
• Postpartum haemorrhage (excessive bleeding after delivery)
• Delayed development in babies
• Higher risk of maternal death during labor

How Anaemia Is Diagnosed

During your antenatal clinic visits, nurses will test your haemoglobin (Hb) levels through a blood test. If your Hb is below 11 g/dL, you may be diagnosed with anaemia. The earlier it’s caught, the easier it is to manage.

How to Prevent Anaemia During Pregnancy in Kenya

• Eat iron-rich foods daily (see below)
• Take iron and folate supplements as prescribed
• Use mosquito nets to avoid malaria
• Get dewormed as advised by your clinic
• Do not skip antenatal visits

Iron-Rich Foods Available in Kenya

Eating the right foods can help restore iron levels. Kenyan iron-rich options include:

• Managu (black nightshade)
• Kunde (cowpeas leaves)
• Beef liver (very high in iron)
• Boiled eggs
• Beans and lentils
• Green bananas
• Sweet potatoes with skins
• Fortified cereals and porridge flour

Foods That Help with Iron Absorption

• Oranges and orange juice
• Mangoes
• Pineapples
• Tomatoes
• Passion fruit juice

These are rich in Vitamin C, which helps your body absorb more iron from plant sources.

Should You Take Supplements?

Yes. Iron and folic acid tablets are routinely provided free in public clinics in Kenya. If you experience side effects (e.g., constipation, nausea), talk to your healthcare provider for alternatives or iron syrup.

Is It Safe to Use Home Remedies?

While some herbs or traditional foods may help improve nutrition, they should never replace professional treatment. Avoid unverified remedies or herbal concoctions that may be unsafe in pregnancy.

Voices from Kenyan Mothers

“I fainted in the market while 6 months pregnant. The clinic said I had severe anaemia. After taking iron pills and eating kunde every day, I got better.” – Faith, Bungoma

“I didn’t know mosquito bites could cause anaemia. Now I sleep under a net every night and take my tablets without fail.” – Milkah, Kilifi

Conclusion

Anaemia in pregnancy is preventable and treatable. By eating iron-rich foods, taking supplements, and going for regular antenatal visits, Kenyan mothers can avoid serious complications. Talk to your clinic today — your health and your baby’s future depend on it.

Need Help? Visit your nearest public health facility or call Kenya’s toll-free maternal health line 0800 721 316 for support and advice.