Intravenous Iron Sucrose Versus Blood Transfusion In The Management Of Moderate Post Partum Iron Deficiency Anemia.

Postpartum anaemia remains a significant global health concern with prevalence rates varying between 10-40 percent of women globally. A prospective non-randomized quasi-experimental study conducted by Dhaka Medical College Hospital found that intravenous iron sucrose (600 mg administered over three days) was as effective as blood transfusion in improving haemoglobin levels and iron stores in women with moderate postpartum anaemia (Hb 7-8 g/dl). Their results showed mean Hb level increased by 4.2 g/dl in the IV iron group and 4.5 g/dl in the blood transfusion group at six weeks post-intervention, with no significant differences between groups.A study from Saudi Arabia reported postpartum anaemia prevalence of 52.percent with 55.4 percent classified as moderate anaemia. Risk factors identified include anaemia during pregnancy, primiparity, and childbirth complications.  Another comparative study found intravenous iron sucrose to be safe, efficacious, and cost-effective for treating postpartum anaemia, with minimal adverse reactions compared to blood transfusion. Research on iron sucrose therapy has demonstrated significant improvements in haemoglobin levels, serum ferritin, reticulocyte count, and other haematological parameters with negligible side effects. The average dose requirement reported in studies ranges from 300-600 mg with administration protocols typically involving divided doses given on alternate days. Multiple studies have confirmed that iron sucrose is well-tolerated, with minor side effects including nausea, vomiting, mild fever, and rare instances of thrombophlebitis. This study will provide evidence based guidance on the optimal management strategy for moderate postpartum anaemia, potentially improving maternal care protocols. Intravenous iron sucrose therapy may prove to be an effective alternative to blood transfusion, reducing transfusion-associated risks such as transfusion reactions, infections, and alloimmunization. The findings may contribute to the development of standardized protocols for managing postpartum anaemia, optimizing resource utilization in healthcare settings.