Low Iron After Having a Baby: Why So Many New Mums Feel Exhausted

How Common Is Low Iron After Pregnancy?

Iron deficiency after childbirth is surprisingly common. Around one in four women in high-income countries develops anaemia in the months following birth. When looking at iron deficiency on its own, without full-blown anaemia, that number can rise to nearly 40% of new mothers. In broader studies, up to half of women may be affected.

Feeling wiped out might not be just “normal new-mum tiredness”. It could be a sign your body needs help replenishing iron stores.

Why Iron Levels Drop

During pregnancy, your body prioritises iron for your baby. Blood loss during birth, especially if heavier than expected or after a caesarean, can make things worse because your body uses iron to make more red blood cells. Many women also start pregnancy with low iron, leaving very little reserve for the postpartum period. Recovery, ongoing bleeding, and the demands of caring for a newborn can keep your Haemoglobin and iron levels low for months.

In short, many new mums are already running on empty before they even get home from the hospital.

Signs You Might Be Iron Deficient

Iron deficiency (and anaemia) doesn’t always look dramatic. Most often, it shows up as fatigue that doesn’t improve with rest. You might also notice dizziness, shortness of breath, palpitations, headaches, pale skin, or difficulty concentrating.

Iron deficiency isn’t just about energy. It can affect mood, memory, the strength and thickness of your hair and how well you cope with everyday life in those first months. When treated, many women notice improvements in both energy and mental clarity.

Why Oral Iron Isn’t Always Enough

Many women are advised to take iron tablets. But oral iron can be slow to work, hard to absorb, and sometimes causes nausea or constipation. For moderate or severe deficiency — or for those needing faster recovery — oral supplements may not be enough.

That’s where intravenous (IV) iron comes in.

IV Iron: Fast, Effective, and Safe

Research shows IV iron restores iron levels faster than oral tablets. Haemoglobin rises more quickly, iron stores are replenished, and many women feel better in weeks rather than months (or years!). IV iron is especially helpful for women who cannot tolerate oral iron, have significant deficiency, or need a faster recovery to care for their baby.

At Effect Doctors, we offer modern IV iron infusions under medical supervision. Each treatment is personalised based on your blood results and delivered in a calm, comfortable clinic environment. Many mums notice improvements in energy, mental clarity, and overall recovery soon after treatment.

When to Consider Testing

If fatigue feels overwhelming, or if you notice dizziness, palpitations, brain fog, or persistent weakness, it’s worth getting your iron levels checked. Women who lost a lot of blood during delivery, had low iron during pregnancy, or can’t tolerate oral iron are particularly likely to benefit.

A simple blood test measuring haemoglobin and ferritin can clarify whether low iron is contributing to how you feel.

You Don’t Have to Just Push Through

While some tiredness is normal after having a baby, persistent exhaustion is not something you need to accept. Iron deficiency is common, treatable, and can be addressed safely.

If you’ve been feeling constantly drained, a simple blood test and, if needed, a personalised iron infusion could make a significant difference in your recovery and wellbeing.

References

1. World Health Organization — Postpartum anaemia guidance.

2. Holm et al. Postpartum anaemia and iron deficiency in women after delivery.

3. Milman N. Postpartum anaemia: prevalence, consequences, and treatment.

4. Holm et al. Intravenous iron improves fatigue and recovery postpartum.

5. Lola&Lykke. Postpartum Anaemia Explained.

Dr William Buxton