Comparison of Hemopoietic Biochemical Parameters in the First, Second, and Third Trimester of Pregnant Females Attending a Tertiary Care Hospital of Western Rajasthan

Abstract

Background: Pregnant women constitute a high-risk group for nutrient deficiency anemia which may be associated with detrimental effects on maternal and infant health. Objectives: This study aimed to assess and compare hematological and biochemical changes across trimesters in pregnant women, considering parameters such as hemoglobin, serum iron, unsaturated iron-binding capacity (UIBC), total iron-binding capacity (TIBC), ferritin, vitamin B12, and folic acid. The research sought to identify mean value differences, correlations, and potential implications for maternal healthcare practices. Methods: A hospital-based prospective observational study was conducted, involving 60 primigravida women with singleton pregnancies. The subjects were assessed during the first, second, and third trimesters. Biochemical parameters were assessed using standard methods, and statistical analysis was performed to identify significance and correlations. Results: The study revealed a significant decline in hemoglobin, serum iron, ferritin, vitamin B12, and folic acid as pregnancy advanced. Hemoglobin levels decreased from 11.40 g/dl (first trimester) to 10.43 g/dl (third trimester). Serum iron exhibited a decline from 109.73 µg/dl (first trimester) to 94.03 µg/dl (third trimester). Serum ferritin decreased from 24.93 ng/ml (first trimester) to 18.21 ng/ml (third trimester). Vitamin B12 levels dropped from 255.92 pg/ml (first trimester) to 92.13 pg/ml (third trimester). Folic acid levels decreased from 13.82 ng/ml (first trimester) to 11.77 ng/ml (third trimester). UIBC and TIBC concentrations increased progressively across trimesters. Statistical evaluations confirmed the significance of these trends. The coefficient of correlation indicated positive relationships between hemoglobin and serum iron, ferritin, folic acid, and vitamin B12. Positive correlation between serum iron and ferritin, vitamin B12, and negative with folic acid. Serum ferritin negatively correlated with vitamin B12 and folic acid. Serum folic acid and vitamin B12 are positively correlated. Conclusion: The findings emphasize the dynamic nature of hematological and biochemical changes during pregnancy. The observed trends have profound implications for maternal healthcare practices, urging targeted interventions, early monitoring, and supportive supplementation. Recognizing these variations contributes to the optimization of health outcomes for both mother and child.