Can anemia with a hemoglobin level of 85 at 37 weeks of pregnancy be corrected?

A hemoglobin level of 85 g/L in a pregnant woman indicates moderate anemia. For the mother, moderate anemia can easily lead to tachycardia (increased heart rate) and may cause uterine inertia during delivery, thereby prolonging labor. For the fetus, it may result in fetal hypoxia and potentially lead to complications such as intrauterine growth restriction and developmental impairments. Whether moderate anemia can be corrected depends on the specific type of anemia.

1. Iron-deficiency anemia

If the anemia is caused by insufficient iron supply relative to increased iron demands during pregnancy—leading to depletion of iron stores and subsequent iron deficiency—anemia can be rapidly improved by consuming iron-rich foods such as red dates and red beans, or by taking supplements like ferrous sulfate. Additionally, folic acid and other medications can be used to replenish essential hematopoietic elements.

2. Thalassemia

If the anemia results from factors such as viral infections, chemical exposure, immune abnormalities, or genetic conditions that lead to reduced bone marrow function and aplastic anemia, or from deletion of the α-globin gene causing an imbalance in globin chains and reduced synthesis of normal hemoglobin—resulting in thalassemia—then dietary changes or medication cannot effectively correct the condition. Treatment should be determined based on individual circumstances.

Furthermore, if a pregnant woman develops anemia, she should promptly visit a hospital for evaluation to determine the specific type of anemia and receive appropriate treatment. Meanwhile, she can increase intake of nutritious foods such as milk and eggs, and avoid spicy or irritating foods.