Many pregnant women take prenatal supplements. Some contain iron while others may not. The amount of iron a woman needs during pregnancy is important to discuss with her care provider.

Iron can reduce fatigue and prevent anemia. Now, women may have another reason to add more of the mineral to their diet: to ease PMS symptoms.

Women who lose a lot of blood while giving birth may end up with acute postpartum anemia. A blood transfusion can help them feel a little less tired but may not be necessary.