So what is anemia and why do so many pregnant women need to be treated for it? Anemia occurs when the number or size of a person's red blood cells are too low. These red blood cells are important because they are what transports oxygen throughout your body and to your baby from your lungs. Usually, pregnant women are tested at their first prenatal visit and then again around 24 to 28 weeks.

There are a couple reasons why women become anemic, iron deficiency and other medical illnesses or diseases that cause anemia such as sickle cell anemia and thalassemia. Iron deficiency being the most common reason, women just aren't getting enough iron rich foods in their diet and iron helps to create red blood cells in the body. Not having enough iron in your diet or being iron deficient as been shown to lead to premature birth and low birth weight.

There are many signs and symptoms of being anemic and here is some very common ones to look out for:

• Fatigue
• Weakness
• Dizziness
• Headache
• Numbness or coldness in your hands or feet
• Low body temperature
• Pale skin
• Rapid or irregular heartbeat
• Shortness of breath
• Chest pain
• Irritability

If your blood work does come back showing that you are anemic, don't panic. It is very easy to take care of as long as you are making good food choices that are rich in iron and remembering to take any supplements that are given to you by your doctor. Most pregnant women need about 27mg of iron a day in their diet.

Here is a list of some foods that are very iron rich that you can add to your diet:

• Poultry (dark meat)
• Dried fruits
• Oatmeal
• Whole Grains
• Liver
• Sea-foods
• Any kind of leafy greens and veggies

Also, to help your body absorb the iron from these foods and from your supplements, be sure to add in some foods and beverages that are high in vitamin C like orange juice and fruit. On the flip side, there are also foods and beverages that work against your efforts in absorbing all the iron you need. Consuming coffee, dairy products, fiber and soy protein can all defeat your efforts to boost your iron. Try to avoid these things when you are taking your supplements or consuming your iron rich foods.

One of the biggest side effect from taking iron supplements is the constipation that comes with it. Being pregnant, constipation probably isn't a new thing for you but keep in mind that it could get worse. In addition to the stool softeners that you may be taking already, be sure to up your fiber intake and as always, drink lots of water. If you are still having problems with the constipation or your supplements aren't agreeing with you, talk to your doctor. There are many different iron supplements and alternatives that you can try before tossing in the towel all together.