Low PCV (Packed Cell Volume), also known as low blood level or anemia, is one of the most common problems affecting pregnant women in Lagos. With the city’s fast-paced lifestyle, nutritional challenges, and high rates of iron deficiency, many expecting mothers are at risk without even knowing it.
At Mascot Healthcare Clinic, we see how low PCV leads to tiredness, weakness, dizziness, poor fetal growth, and complications during delivery. The good news? Low PCV in pregnancy is preventable with the right steps.
In this write-up, we will explain practical ways pregnant women in Lagos can prevent low PCV and stay healthy throughout pregnancy.
What Is PCV?
PCV (Packed Cell Volume) measures the percentage of red blood cells in the blood.
Normal PCV levels in pregnancy: 30–36%
Anything below 30% indicates low PCV or anemia.
Causes of Low PCV in Pregnant Women in Lagos
Many factors commonly seen among women in Lagos can increase the risk of low PCV:
1. Poor Iron Intake
Staple Nigerian meals (rice, garri, bread) are often low in iron.
2. Malaria
Lagos is malaria-endemic, and repeated malaria episodes destroy red blood cells.
3. Infections (e.g., worms)
Poor sanitation and contaminated water can lead to worm infestations, which reduce blood levels.
4. Short Birth Spacing
Pregnancies too close together do not allow the body to rebuild iron stores.
5. Heavy menstrual flow before pregnancy
This often leads to chronic low iron reserves.
How to Prevent Low PCV in Pregnancy
1. Eat Iron-Rich Foods Daily
Lagos markets are full of affordable iron-rich foods. Encourage pregnant women to include these in their diet:
- Ugu (pumpkin leaves)
- Efo riro
- Beans
- Fish
- Beef and liver
- Eggs
- Okra
- Dry crayfish
- Soya milk
- Pawpaw and oranges (help iron absorption)
Combine vegetable soups with protein and a fruit for better iron absorption.
2. Take Routine Pregnancy Supplements
Every pregnant woman should take:
- Iron and folic acid tablets
- Prenatal multivitamins
- Vitamin C for enhanced iron absorption
3. Prevent and Treat Malaria Early
Because Lagos has a high malaria burden, prevention is key:
- Sleep under insecticide-treated nets (ITNs)
- Use pregnancy-safe antimalarial prevention during ANC
- Visit a clinic immediately if experiencing fever, chills, or body weakness
Malaria is one of the fastest ways PCV drops in pregnancy.
4. Deworm Safely During Pregnancy
Under medical supervision, pregnant women are dewormed after the first trimester.
This helps prevent intestinal worms from reducing iron levels.
5. Attend Regular Antenatal Care
Antenatal care allows early detection and treatment of low PCV.
At Mascot Healthcare, we:
- Check PCV levels regularly
- Provide iron therapy
- Manage malaria
- Offer nutritional counselling
- Monitor fetal wellbeing
Early treatment prevents complications like preterm delivery and severe anemia.
6. Avoid Excessive Tea, Coffee, and Milk With Meals
These reduce iron absorption. Pregnant women should take them 1–2 hours after meals, not with meals.
7. Space Pregnancies Appropriately
Using safe family planning methods after childbirth allows the body to rebuild blood stores before the next pregnancy.
When to See a Doctor in Lagos
Pregnant women should visit the clinic immediately if they notice:
- Constant tiredness
- Breathlessness
- Palpitations
- Dizziness
- Pale lips or palms
Low PCV can progress quickly, so early care is essential.
How Mascot Healthcare Helps Pregnant Women Prevent Low PCV
Our antenatal clinic offers:
- Full blood count & PCV tests
- Iron and folate supplementation
- Malaria screening and prophylaxis
- Deworming after first trimester
- Nutrition counselling
Conclusion
Low PCV in pregnancy is common among women in Lagos, but it is very preventable. With the right diet, supplements, malaria prevention, and antenatal care, pregnant women can stay healthy and deliver safely.
If you are pregnant and live in Lagos, visit Mascot Healthcare Clinic for affordable, quality antenatal checkup.