Abstract:

Objective: This study aims to determine the rational use of oral iron drugs during pregnancy and the factors affecting the hemogram level. Material and Method: The research was conducted at a hospital in Istanbul, Turkey between February 15 and 30 September 2019. This descriptive study was carried out with the participation of 303 low-risk pregnant women. All participants received oral iron supplements during pregnancy. The data were collected using the participant information form and Rational Medicine Use Scale. Results: The mean age of the pregnant women was 30.58±5.63 years. 37.6% of the participants were found to have haemoglobin levels below 11g/dl before pregnancy, 19.5% in their first trimester, and 32.3% in their third trimester. A significant relationship was found between the first-trimester anemia status and the third-trimester haemoglobin and haematocrit levels (p=0.000). A significant relationship was observed between third-trimester haemoglobin and haematocrit values and regular use of oral iron medication, and compliance of fetus to gestational week (p=0.003; p=0.001). A significant relationship was detected between the education level of pregnant women, income status perception and the Rational Medicine Use Scale mean scores (p=0.000; p=0.028). Conclusion: Regular use of oral iron medication during pregnancy has affected third-trimester haemoglobin and haematocrit levels and fetal development positively. Nurses and midwives should explain and emphasize the importance of the correct-rational use of iron drugs for pregnant women.

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