The Importance of Calcium and Iron in

Pregnant and Lactating Women

Pregnant Women

Iron
A pregnant woman’s body uses iron to make extra blood (hemoglobin) for herself and her baby
during pregnancy. Iron also helps move oxygen from your lungs to the rest of her body -- and to her
baby's. Getting enough iron can prevent a condition of too few red blood cells that can make you feel
tired, called iron deficiency anemia.

Calcium
During pregnancy, an expecting mother gives her baby all the calcium they need, so when they consume
the recommended amount of calcium every day they are both taking care of themselves and their baby.
If they don't get enough, they could run into some complications.

Regardless of whether or not a mother to be takes in enough, her body will still give calcium to her baby.
So, if she is not replacing what you're giving away, she could end up with weakened bones and a greater
risk of osteoporosis (a disease occurring especially in women after the menopause in which the bones
become very porous, break easily, and heal slowly) later in life

Lactating Women

Iron
A mother uses the iron she consumes to make breast milk. The iron is necessary for a baby’s
development. The iron supports proper neurological development during infancy and early childhood.

Calcium
A mother uses the calcium she consumes to make breast milk. Calcium helps babies build strong bones
and teeth, and plays an important role in the healthy functioning of the circulatory, muscular, and
nervous systems. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should get 1,000 mg of calcium a day1

1
Pregnant and breastfeeding women should get 1,000 mg of calcium a day