Can hookworm infection affect haemoglobin during pregnancy?

Yes. Hookworms can cause ongoing blood loss from the intestine. A heavier infection may therefore lower haemoglobin and contribute to anaemia.

Can you have hookworm without symptoms?

Yes. Mild infections may cause few or no noticeable symptoms. A stool test may be needed when hookworm infection is suspected.

Is deworming allowed during pregnancy?

Deworming may be recommended in certain situations during pregnancy, particularly after the first trimester and in areas where hookworm is common, and anaemia is a major public health concern. Your doctor should decide whether treatment is suitable for you.

Hookworm During Pregnancy: Can It Cause Anaemia?

Hookworm can lead to anaemia during pregnancy, especially if the infection is heavy or prolonged. These parasites cling to the intestines and feed on blood, which depletes iron stores and subsequently contributes to low haemoglobin. As a result, you may develop anaemia. Anaemia is a common condition during pregnancy. This is because your body’s requirement for iron increases significantly to support your increased blood volume and to meet the needs of your growing baby.

So, if you also have a hookworm infection, you may need closer monitoring and early care to prevent associated complications.

However, having a hookworm infection does not necessarily mean that you will definitely develop anaemia. The risk is determined by the number of worms, the duration of the infection, and your existing iron levels.

How Can Hookworm Infection Be Responsible For Causing Anaemia During Pregnancy?

Hookworms attach themselves to the intestinal wall. They feed on blood from the small blood vessels and tissues around the area. A heavier infection may lead to ongoing intestinal blood loss. The blood loss may gradually reduce your body's iron stores. As a result, your haemoglobin may fall, and iron-deficiency anaemia can develop or become worse.

WHO recognises hookworm as a cause of chronic intestinal blood loss and anaemia, particularly among women of reproductive age.

You may be more likely to develop anaemia if you:

Already have low iron levels
Have a heavier worm infection
Have had the infection for a long time
Have another cause of blood loss
Are not getting enough iron through your diet or supplements prescribed during pregnancy

What Are The Symptoms Associated With Hookworm Infection?

Hookworm infection may cause no clear symptoms, especially when the infection is mild.

However, you may notice:

Tiredness or unusual weakness
Pale skin
Dizziness
Abdominal discomfort
Nausea
Reduced appetite

These symptoms are not specific to hookworm. Some of these symptoms can also occur during pregnancy or with anaemia due to other causes. So, infection cannot be suspected based on symptom assessment alone.

How Is Hookworm Diagnosed During Pregnancy?

Your doctor may prescribe stool tests to confirm the presence of hookworm eggs. They may also prescribe a blood test to determine your haemoglobin level and to diagnose whether you suffer from anaemia.

If you are suffering from anaemia, your doctor will also investigate the possible cause. There are several reasons behind anaemia during pregnancy; they include

Poor iron levels in the body
Folate deficiency
Vitamin B12 deficiency

If hookworm is confirmed, your doctor will plan the following:

Decide whether deworming treatment is appropriate for you
When deworming should be done

You should not take a deworming medicine on your own during pregnancy. Moreover, according to WHO recommendations, preventive deworming treatment can be given to some pregnant women in certain high-risk settings after the first trimester.

How Can You Reduce Your Risk of Hookworm Infection?

You can lower your risk by taking simple precautions:

Wear footwear when walking outdoors, especially on soil
Wash your hands before eating and after using the toilet
Wash, cook or peel vegetables properly
Drink safe water
Use toilets and avoid contact with soil contaminated with human faeces
Follow your antenatal care plan and get tested if your doctor suspects a worm infection

If you have persistent tiredness, dizziness, weakness, or other symptoms of anaemia, mention them during your antenatal visit. Knowing the signs can help you get an early assessment. With this, your doctor can analyse whether anaemia is related to iron deficiency, hookworm, or another condition.

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FAQs on Hookworm During Pregnancy: Can It Cause Anaemia?

Can hookworm infection affect haemoglobin during pregnancy?
Yes. Hookworms can cause ongoing blood loss from the intestine. A heavier infection may therefore lower haemoglobin and contribute to anaemia.
Can you have hookworm without symptoms?
Yes. Mild infections may cause few or no noticeable symptoms. A stool test may be needed when hookworm infection is suspected.
Is deworming allowed during pregnancy?
Deworming may be recommended in certain situations during pregnancy, particularly after the first trimester and in areas where hookworm is common, and anaemia is a major public health concern. Your doctor should decide whether treatment is suitable for you.